How To Get The Most Bang For Your Bid — PT. 1
Close the Deal with this guide to Better Bids for Tenant Improvements & Renovations
When it comes to tenant improvements or property renovations, we know brokers are often racing against the clock. Your client wants a space they love, and they want it yesterday. To get them to sign on the dotted line, you need quick, budget-friendly quotes that inspire confidence. We’re here to help—but when bid requests come with spotty information, it’s like trying to navigate a new city without a GPS.
Without certain key details, contractors have to rely on cautious assumptions, which can inflate the bid or lead to unexpected surprises later. To avoid this, here’s what you should provide your contractor upfront to get the most accurate and competitive bid so your client signs every time. Plus, we’ve added a new feature on our website to simplify the process—be sure to check it out at the end of this guide!
Must-Have Essentials
1. Property Address
What we need: The physical address of the project site.
Why we need it: The address allows us to research location-specific factors, such as access, zoning, and any regional considerations that could impact costs or timelines.
2. Scope of Work
What we need: A clear breakdown of the tasks required—flooring, painting, wall demo, plumbing, electrical, etc.
Why we need it: Understanding the specific tasks ensures we price only what’s needed and avoid unnecessary contingencies that could inflate the bid.
3. Timeline
What we need: The client’s expected project completion date.
Why we need it: Tight deadlines can affect scheduling and costs. Knowing the timeline helps us allocate resources effectively and plan for any accelerated timelines.
4. Floor Plans
What we need: Rough sketches, draft plans, or final floor plans.
Why we need it: Plans help us visualize the space and understand layout constraints, leading to more accurate estimates. Even basic sketches are better than working blind.
5. Scheduling a Job Walk
What we need: A scheduled on-site visit to inspect the space.
Why we need it: Walking the job site allows us to take precise measurements, assess existing conditions, and identify potential challenges early, ensuring a more accurate bid.
Nice-to-Haves
1. Real Estate Brochure
What we need: Any marketing materials, photos, or spec sheets about the property.
Why we need it: These provide context about the property’s features and condition, which can influence the scope and complexity of the project.
2. Finish Selections or Style Preferences
What we need: A general idea of the client’s desired finishes, such as flooring types, paint colors, or fixture styles.
Why we need it: Knowing the aesthetic direction helps us tailor our bid. This avoids pricing generic finishes that don’t align with the client’s vision, preventing surprises later.
3. Funding Information
What we need: Details on whether the landlord is contributing to the buildout or if the client is covering all costs, as well as an idea of the overall budget if available.
Why we need it: Knowing the budget helps us provide realistic options that align with financial expectations while ensuring the project scope is feasible. It also allows us to focus on value-driven solutions without compromising quality or efficiency.
4. Existing Plans from Past Renovations
What we need: Any previous construction plans or records for the space.
Why we need it: Existing plans can highlight hidden challenges, like outdated wiring or structural quirks, helping us plan more accurately.
5. Client Contact Information
What we need: Direct contact details for the client.
Why we need it: Speaking with the client ensures we fully understand their vision, eliminating the risk of miscommunication and aligning expectations early.
NEW! Streamlined Quote Requests
To make your life easier, Brandise Construction now offers a new and improved method for submitting Requests for Quotes (RFQs). Our online system is fast, easy to use, and available on your schedule, so you can submit requests anytime, anywhere.
Every RFQ you submit goes directly to our inbox, ensuring your request is never missed. The form is designed to be flexible—you only need to fill out the information you know, and we’ll handle the rest. This streamlined process ensures we have the details necessary to provide you with accurate, competitive bids, while saving you time and reducing back-and-forth communication.
Our system is secure, hassle-free, and completely non-binding—submit with confidence and no obligations.
With this tool, you can get the quotes you need to close deals faster, all with minimal hassle. We’ve got your back—from RFQ to ROI!
Partnering with Brandise = More deals signed
At Brandise Construction, we know that accurate, timely bids make all the difference in helping you close deals and create satisfied clients. We’re happy to provide “budgetary numbers” when needed, but the more details you share with us upfront, the more precise and competitive our bids will be. This approach doesn’t just benefit us—it builds trust and confidence with your client, making them more likely to sign that lease.
With years of experience in tenant improvements and commercial renovations, Brandise Construction is your partner in bringing your client’s vision to life. Our team is committed to quality, transparency, and clear communication every step of the way. Let’s work together to make each project a success and deliver results that will impress both you and your clients.
If you enjoyed this article, stay tuned for part 2 where we focus on how to get better bids for your ground up construction projects!