Estimate vs Quote: What You Need to Know Before You Build in Adelaide.
If you’re starting to plan a new home or extension project in Adelaide, you’ll likely hear the terms “estimate” and “quote”. At first glance, they might seem interchangeable, but understanding the difference can save you confusion, stress, and potentially thousands of dollars.
At Dornford Building Group, we believe in clarity from day one. That’s why we’re breaking down exactly what each term means, when to use them, and how they affect your planning and budget.
What Is a Building Estimate?
A building estimate is a preliminary, best-guess projection of what your project might cost. It’s based on limited information, like rough drawings, general materials, and site assumptions, and is often used in the early planning stages.
It’s ideal for when you’re exploring options and want to know if your ideas are financially feasible before investing in detailed plans.
Key Features of an Estimate:
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Flexible: The cost may change as your project becomes more defined.
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Non-binding: It’s not a formal agreement. Neither you nor the builder are locked in.
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Informative: It gives you a ballpark figure to assess scope and direction.
At Dornford, we often provide cost estimates after an initial consultation or concept design phase to help you plan with confidence while retaining flexibility.
What Is a Building Quote?
A building quote is a formal, fixed-price offer for your project. It’s detailed, specific, and legally binding once accepted.
Quotes are based on full documentation, including final plans, specifications, engineering, and site investigations. They take significant time to prepare but offer clarity and commitment.
Key Features of a Quote:
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Fixed Price: Unless you request changes (called variations), the price won’t change.
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Binding: Once signed, both parties are legally committed to the scope and cost.
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Detailed Scope: It outlines exactly what’s included, materials, labour, timeline, and allowances.
At Dornford Building Group, we take great care to ensure every quote is fully transparent and aligned with your expectations, no surprises, no grey areas.
Estimate or Quote: Which One Do You Need?
Knowing when to ask for an estimate versus a quote can make all the difference in your building journey.
Use an Estimate When:
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You’re in the early stages of planning.
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You want to explore budget ranges before committing.
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Your design is still evolving.
Use a Quote When:
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Your design, specifications, and site information are complete.
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You’re ready to sign a building contract and move forward.
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You want cost certainty and a locked-in scope.
Pro tip: An estimate helps you plan. A quote commits you to build.
Why It Matters for Your Budget and Peace of Mind
Mixing up an estimate and a quote can lead to disappointment or misaligned expectations. We’ve seen it happen too often, especially when comparing builders on price without understanding what each figure represents.
At Dornford, we guide you through the entire journey:
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We explain when an estimate is appropriate
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We take the time to develop fixed-price quotes for approved projects
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And we ensure you know exactly what you’re getting and what it will cost
This is how we help our clients build smarter, and with total financial clarity.
Need Help Getting Started?
We understand that building can be confusing, stressful and it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you’re just beginning or you’re ready for a formal quote, our team is here to guide you with genuine care, expert advice, and complete transparency.
Call us on 0466 454 110
Email: mail@dornfordgroup.com
Or get in touch here
If you’re not quite ready or if you’d like to do more research before reaching out, feel free to visit our other DBG Blogs or see www.youtube.com/@dornfordbuildinggroup for more helpful building tips and tricks.
