Estimate vs quote
An estimate says “about this much”; a quote says “exactly this much”. Which one to send depends on how much you still don’t know.
| Estimate | Quote | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Approximate, often a range | Fixed for the stated scope |
| Can change? | Yes, within reason and with notice | Only if scope changes |
| Best for | Repairs, renovations, discovery-stage projects | Well-defined jobs and products |
| Risk sits with | Shared: client sees the uncertainty | You: overruns come out of your margin |
Why estimates come as a range
The less you know about a job, the wider the honest range. A fixed quote has to hide that uncertainty inside a buffer; an estimate shows it. Slide how much of the job is still unknown.
The client sees the real uncertainty: likely 2,400 to 3,600. You agree to call before going over the top figure.
A simple rule of thumb
If you could write the full scope today and would be happy to be held to the price, send a quote. If an important part depends on something you can’t see yet (what’s behind a wall, how much content the client will supply), send an estimate with the assumptions written down, then convert it to a quote once you know.
Questions
Can the final price be higher than an estimate?
Yes, that is what makes it an estimate. Good practice is to agree to contact the client before exceeding the upper figure.
Is a quote legally binding?
A quote is an offer. Once the client accepts it, it can form a binding contract at that price for that scope, depending on local law.