Planning guide
Online estimate vs. contractor quote
Published by Clear House · Updated
Short answer
An online estimate is a planning range based on typical rates and a few details you provide. A contractor quote is a price for your specific job from the business that will do it. Use an online estimate to set a budget and spot outliers; use quotes to decide.
No online tool can see hidden damage, exact measurements or local code requirements, so the final price can be higher or lower than any estimate.
Side by side
| Online estimate | Contractor quote | |
|---|---|---|
| Who provides it | A calculator or app | The contractor doing the work |
| Based on | Typical rates and your answers | Your home, measurements and their costs |
| Speed | Minutes, no visit | Usually after an inspection or detailed photos |
| Binding? | No | Often, once written and accepted (check terms) |
| Best for | Budgeting and comparing options | Making a hiring decision |
How to use both
- Start with an estimate to decide whether the project fits your budget.
- Share the same project description with the contractor so the quote is comparable.
- If a quote is far from the estimate, ask what is driving the difference.
About Clear House estimates
Clear House planning ranges come from a rules-based calculator that uses U.S. planning rates, not local bids. They exclude permits, taxes and hidden damage, and they are not quotes.
A pro who receives your project through Clear House sends their own quote, which can differ from the estimate. You do not have to accept it.
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- U.S. Federal Trade Commission — How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam — Advice on licenses, insurance, written estimates, contracts and down payments.
Related
Clear House is a marketplace, not a contractor. Costs on this page are published averages or planning ranges, not quotes, and your price will differ. Always confirm licensing, insurance and permits with the pro you hire.