BidMagic Construction Estimating Software-- Estimating Fudge Factors

Fudge Factors

NOTE-- We retired the BidMagic construction estimating software in 2001. It has been replaced by Goldenseal construction estimating software.

We still include this BidMagic estimating software manual as a convenience for users of our older program. Many features are similar, in Goldenseal estimating.

BidMagic includes four fudge factors that can be used to adjust labor, material, subcontractor and overall costs.

NOTE: Use the fudge factors to account for unusual projects, picky clients, recent material price changes, and other conditions affecting prices.

Locality Factor and Quality Factor

These two factors are available for rough estimates only.

The locality factor adjusts prices for the neighborhood where the project is located. To change it, click on the 'cycle button' until the appropriate locality is displayed.

The quality factor adjusts prices for the 'intangible' costs of different qualities of work. To change it, click the mouse on the house and drag it to the left (for cheaper construction) or to the right (for more 'high end' work).

Labor Costs

On the right half of the card, enter the net labor cost per hour for skilled and unskilled workers. By turning on the Use Burden Calculator button, you'll be able to compute that cost directly.