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The Hidden Danger of the "Free Estimate"

January 29, 20262 min read
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The Hidden Danger of the "Free Estimate"

Every homeowner loves the sound of "Free Estimate." It sounds like zero risk. But in the construction world, free estimates are often the most expensive thing you can buy.

The Difference Between a Quote and an Estimate

A "Free Estimate" is typically a sales tool. It's a rough guess designed to get you to sign a contract. It often leaves out critical details—intentionally or accidentally—which turn into "Change Orders" later.

A Technical Estimate (what we provide) is a detailed plan. It calculates labor hours, material quantities, and risk factors. It costs money to produce because it saves money to execute.

The "Scope Gap" Trap

When three contractors give you three different "free" prices, they are usually pricing three different projects:

  • Contractor A ($15k): Pricing the bare minimum. Cheapest materials. No contingency.
  • Contractor B ($25k): Realistic pricing, but maybe missing some high-end finishes you wanted.
  • Contractor C ($40k): Padding the number because they are too busy to calculate it properly.

Without a standardized scope of work (SOW), you can't compare these numbers. You choose Contractor A, and by the end of the job, change orders bring the total to $28k—more than Contractor B's honest price.

The ModuBlox Solution: Truthful Ranges

We don't give you a sales pitch. We give you data. Our engine calculates the components required for your project and gives you a "Low" to "High" range based on verified regional pricing.

Don't guess. Calculate.