Question 1

What is a rough order of magnitude (ROM) renovation estimate?

Accepted Answer

A rough order of magnitude estimate gives you a ballpark cost range for a project before detailed planning begins. ROM estimates are typically accurate within ±25–50% and are used to decide whether a project is feasible, to sanity-check early bids, and to secure budget approval. They are not detailed quotes — those come after a contractor reviews plans and specifications. Archie returns the range broken down by phase, so you can see which part of the number is the risky part.

Question 2

How much does it cost to renovate a house?

Accepted Answer

Renovation costs vary widely by scope and location. A cosmetic refresh (paint, fixtures, flooring) runs $15–$40 per square foot. A mid-level renovation (kitchens, baths, some systems) runs $75–$150 per square foot. A full gut renovation or high-end remodel runs $150–$400+ per square foot. In high-cost cities like Los Angeles and New York, costs can be 30–50% higher than national averages — which is why the estimate is priced against the address you give, not a national table.

Question 3

How do I know if a contractor's quote is fair?

Accepted Answer

Get at least 3 bids and compare them against a ROM estimate. If a bid is more than 20% above the ROM, ask the contractor to itemize costs. Common markups to watch: 20–30% overhead and profit is standard; material markups over 30% are high; 'allowances' set too low are a red flag for change orders later. Once the project exists in Archie you can send him any quote in the same WhatsApp thread and he will line it up against the estimate and flag the unusual items.

Question 4

Do I need an account to use the cost estimator?

Accepted Answer

No sign-up on this page. If Archie doesn't know your number yet, his first reply is a one-tap link to log in or create your account and connect the number — a free account, created in that tap. The scope you already sent is picked up automatically once the account exists, so you never send it twice.

Pick the scope.
Archie prices it.
Budget comes back.

One scope in,
a whole budget back.

Pick the scope. Archie prices it. Budget comes back.

One scope in,a whole budget back.

Pick the scope.
Archie prices it.
Budget comes back.

One scope in,
a whole budget back.