February 18, 2026 4:29 AM PST
I’ve been reviewing bids for a mid-size building project and noticed something interesting after several rounds of pricing, many contractor bids started falling into a surprisingly narrow range, even though the companies were different and prepared their estimates independently. Earlier rough numbers were more scattered, but later bids looked much closer together.
It made me wonder whether this happens because scope details become clearer over time, or because contractors interpret drawings and specifications more consistently once documentation is complete. I’m guessing assumptions reduce and quantities align better, which naturally pulls costs toward a similar level.
I’ve also heard that projects supported by accurate estimating services during pre-construction tend to show less variation between bidders, since the scope and quantities are already well defined before pricing begins. That seems logical, but I’m curious how common this pattern is in real projects.
For those involved in bidding or procurement, have you seen bid ranges tighten as design progresses? And what factors usually cause estimates from different contractors to converge clearer drawings, standardized specs, or market pricing norms? Would appreciate hearing your experience.