The better you prep, the more accurate your live bids. These guides help you gather the right info before contractors compete.
How to get rough dimensions for a more accurate live bid
Contractors bid based on square footage and scope. The more accurate your initial measurements, the tighter their bids will be—and the fewer surprises you'll have later.
Walk around your house with a measuring tape (or use the property records from your county assessor's office).
Your roof's slope adds surface area. Use this multiplier:
1,200 sq ft footprint × 1.2 (medium pitch) = 1,440 sq ft roof
Pro tip: Round up to the nearest "square" (100 sq ft). So 1,440 sq ft = 15 squares.
Upload photos of each window/door to your ProjectBids listing. Contractors can spot issues you might miss (rot, frame damage, non-standard sizes).
What paperwork does your city actually require?
Unpermitted work can tank your home's resale value, void insurance claims, and result in fines. ProjectBids contractors handle permits as part of the bidding process—but you should know what's required.
Timeline: Most roofing permits take 3-5 business days. Budget $200-500 for permit fees.
Good News: Simple like-for-like window replacements (same size, same location) often don't need permits.
Timeline: Remodel permits can take 1-3 weeks. Budget $500-1,500 in total permit fees.
Solar Installation:
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit):
Timeline: ADU permits can take 2-6 months. Budget $2,000-10,000 in total permit and impact fees.
When contractors bid on your project, they include permit costs in their estimates. Our AI standardizes these line items so you can compare apples-to-apples.
You'll see exactly: Permit fees • Timeline delays • Inspection requirements
Real-world costs for home improvements in 2026
Having a realistic budget before you list helps contractors take you seriously—and helps you spot lowball bids that cut corners. These are 2026 Florida averages.
Asphalt Shingles
$8,000 - $15,000
1,500-2,000 sq ft home
Metal Roofing
$18,000 - $30,000
Same home, premium materials
ProjectBids Savings: Average 18% below traditional quotes
ProjectBids Savings: Average 15% savings through competitive bidding
ProjectBids Savings: Average 20% savings on mid-range projects
ProjectBids Savings: Average 17% savings through transparent bidding
After federal tax credit (30%): Subtract ~$7,200-$18,000 from total
Cost per sq ft in Florida: Typically $200-350/sq ft depending on finishes
Our AI breaks down every bid into standardized categories: Materials • Labor • Permits • Timeline. You'll see exactly where your money goes—and where you're getting the best value.