How to Compare Bids Without Just Picking the Cheapest

When bids come in at very different prices for what looks like the same job, the gap usually means something. A bid that's noticeably lower than the others might mean a leaner quote, or it might mean corners are about to be cut, or extra costs added once the job's underway. Before you pick on price alone, read what each bid actually includes.

Check whether materials are included or extra, whether the price covers the full job or just labour for part of it, and whether there's a clear timeframe attached. A bid with a fixed price and clear scope is usually a safer choice than a slightly cheaper one that leaves the scope vague — vague is where "extra costs" tend to live.

A profile with reviews and a track record of similar jobs is worth paying a bit more for, especially on anything where getting it wrong is expensive to fix — plumbing, electrics, structural work. For smaller, lower-risk jobs, price can matter more and reputation less.

You're never obligated to accept any bid on bids&more — if none of them feel right, you can wait for more or repost with a clearer brief.