Consensus Preliminary Estimate – Foundation & Framing

Consensus Preliminary Estimate – Foundation & Framing

Dear Yoni Chriqui,

Following our review of the three AI-generated estimates (Grok, Gemini, and ChatGPT), we have developed a consensus summary for the foundation and framing scope of the 10-unit project at 848 N Detroit Street. This average captures the core metrics for cost, labor, materials, and schedule, stripping out extreme highs and lows for a balanced view.

Consensus Averages

  • Total Estimated Cost (Foundation + Framing): $591,337
  • Materials: ~$322,300 (54% of total)
  • Labor: ~$269,037 (46% of total)
  • Average Duration: ~67 days (~9.5 weeks) from start of excavation to framing inspection
  • Basis: Arithmetic mean of comparable line items across all three plans, adjusted for realistic 2025 Southern California pricing

Key Points

  • The average material cost reflects a mix of dimensional lumber, engineered wood, ready-mix concrete, rebar, hardware, and proprietary Hardy Frame panels.
  • Labor costs assume standard Los Angeles market rates for concrete and framing crews, with productivity assumptions consistent across the three plans.
  • The timeline assumes sequential work with some overlap (e.g., framing materials delivered during concrete curing) and a 5-day work week.

If you’d like, we can proceed to the next step—sourcing materials and labor to complete the bid package with live supplier quotes and subcontractor proposals.

Very truly yours,

Nick Levenstein