One of the smartest things you can do before starting any home improvement project is to get multiple bids. This simple step can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars while ensuring you get quality work.

Why Multiple Bids Matter

When you only get one bid, you have no way of knowing if you're getting a fair price. Contractors price jobs differently based on their overhead, experience, current workload, and profit margins. Getting multiple bids helps you:

  • Understand the market rate for your specific project
  • Compare different approaches to solving the same problem
  • Evaluate contractors based on communication and professionalism
  • Negotiate better terms when you have leverage

How Much Can You Really Save?

The savings from competitive bidding can be substantial. Studies show that bids for the same project can vary by 20-50% or more. On a $10,000 project, that's a potential savings of $2,000 to $5,000.

Real Example: A homeowner needed their roof replaced. The first bid was $18,500. After getting two more bids through Real Time Repairs, they found a equally qualified contractor for $14,200—a savings of $4,300.

The Right Way to Compare Bids

Not all bids are created equal. When comparing, make sure you're looking at:

  • Scope of work: Are they all proposing to do the same thing?
  • Materials: Are they using comparable quality materials?
  • Timeline: Does one contractor promise unrealistic speed?
  • Warranties: What guarantees come with the work?
  • Insurance and licensing: Are all bidders properly credentialed?

A significantly lower bid isn't always better. It could mean the contractor is cutting corners, using cheaper materials, or underestimating the job.

How Real Time Repairs Makes It Easy

Getting multiple bids used to mean making lots of phone calls and waiting around for contractors to show up. Real Time Repairs simplifies this:

  • Post your project once and receive multiple bids
  • Compare bids side-by-side in one place
  • Review contractor credentials and reviews
  • Communicate with contractors through the platform
  • All for free—homeowners never pay

Start Saving Today

Whether you're planning a small repair or a major renovation, competitive bidding is your best tool for getting fair pricing. Post your project on Real Time Repairs and see how much you could save.