{"id":1940,"date":"2026-05-13T18:51:35","date_gmt":"2026-05-13T18:51:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/?p=1940"},"modified":"2026-05-13T18:51:36","modified_gmt":"2026-05-13T18:51:36","slug":"what-preliminary-estimating-construction","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/what-preliminary-estimating-construction\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Preliminary Estimating? Secure Your Project Budget Early"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Up to 30% of project budgets are lost due to poor planning and inaccurate early-stage cost assessments. This isn&#8217;t just a number; it&#8217;s a critical threat to profitability and project viability. Understanding <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/how-to-estimate-construction-costs\/\">what is preliminary estimating in construction<\/a> is fundamental for any project owner, contractor, or developer aiming for financial control.<\/p>\n<p>At Phoenix Estimations, with over 2,000 completed projects and 4,000+ satisfied clients across the US and Canada, we have seen firsthand what accurate estimating does for project outcomes. We consistently observe how early, precise cost insights prevent costly redesigns and budget overruns.<\/p>\n<p>In this guide, you will learn the definition, importance, and process of preliminary estimating. We will show you how this crucial step can secure your project\u2019s financial future, long before detailed designs are finalized.<\/p>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f0f8ff; padding: 20px; border-left: 5px solid #007bff; margin: 20px 0;\">\n<h3 style=\"color: #007bff; margin-top: 0;\">TL;DR Summary<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Core Insight:<\/strong> Preliminary estimating provides crucial, early-stage cost guidance before detailed designs, acting as a vital financial blueprint.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Key Process:<\/strong> It involves using limited design information, historical data, and industry benchmarks to establish a project&#8217;s initial budget range.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Primary Benefit:<\/strong> Early cost validation prevents significant budget overruns, informs design decisions, and ensures project feasibility.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Action Step:<\/strong> Phoenix Estimations offers expert <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/preliminary-estimating-services\">preliminary estimating services<\/a> to establish accurate, early-stage budgets for your project.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Table of Contents<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#what-is-preliminary-estimating\">What Is Preliminary Estimating in Construction?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#why-preliminary-estimating-matters\">Why Preliminary Estimating Matters for Your Project<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to-conduct-preliminary-estimates\">How to Conduct Preliminary Estimates Step-by-Step<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#tools-and-methods\">Tools and Methods for Conceptual Estimating<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#real-world-example\">Real-World Example \u2014 How Phoenix Estimations Solved It<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#common-mistakes\">Common Preliminary Estimating Mistakes to Avoid<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#benefits-of-professional-services\">Benefits of Professional Preliminary Estimating Services<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ Section<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#key-takeaways\">Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-preliminary-estimating\">What Is Preliminary Estimating in Construction?<\/h2>\n<div style=\"background-color: #e6f7ff; padding: 15px; border-left: 4px solid #3399ff; margin-bottom: 20px;\">\n<p><strong>Preliminary estimating in construction<\/strong> is an early-stage cost assessment performed when project design information is minimal, often before detailed drawings exist. It provides a high-level budget range, typically a Class 5 estimate according to AACE International standards, crucial for initial project feasibility studies and conceptual budgeting. This estimate helps stakeholders decide if a project is financially viable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>This type of estimate is also known as a conceptual estimate, order of magnitude estimate, or pre-design cost estimate. Its purpose is to establish a realistic financial framework. It guides initial decision-making and ensures alignment between project aspirations and financial realities. We use broad metrics and historical data, often referencing RSMeans cost data, to achieve this.<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1968\" src=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"what is preliminary estimating in construction\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-scaled.jpeg 2560w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-1024x572.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-768x429.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-1536x857.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating_202605132350-2048x1143.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"why-preliminary-estimating-matters\">Why Preliminary Estimating Matters for Your Project<\/h2>\n<p>An accurate preliminary estimate is not just a projection; it&#8217;s a strategic tool. Projects without solid early estimates face an average of 15-20% higher cost overruns. As we approach 2025, market volatility only increases the need for robust early planning.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cost Control:<\/strong> It sets a realistic budget early, preventing unexpected costs down the line.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Risk Mitigation:<\/strong> Identifies potential financial risks when changes are less costly to implement.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Informed Decision-Making:<\/strong> Provides vital data for go\/no-go decisions and guides design development.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Stakeholder Alignment:<\/strong> Ensures all parties \u2014 owners, developers, and lenders \u2014 agree on financial parameters.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Value Engineering Opportunities:<\/strong> Highlights areas for cost-saving adjustments before extensive design work.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A well-executed preliminary estimate in construction acts as a crucial checkpoint. It confirms project viability and facilitates effective <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/construction-estimating-mistakes\/\">risk management<\/a>. This proactive approach saves both time and capital.<\/p>\n<p>Struggling with estimate accuracy? Our <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/construction-estimating-service\">construction estimating service<\/a> at https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/construction-estimating-service delivers bid-ready numbers fast.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-conduct-preliminary-estimates\">How to Conduct Preliminary Estimates Step-by-Step<\/h2>\n<p>Executing a reliable preliminary estimate requires a structured approach. Our team at Phoenix Estimations follows a systematic process to ensure accuracy even with limited information.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Define Project Scope and Goals:<\/strong> Begin by clearly understanding the project&#8217;s purpose, size, and key features. Even without detailed drawings, establishing the project&#8217;s intent and functional requirements is crucial. This initial <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/quantity-takeoff-in-construction\/\">scope definition<\/a> is the foundation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Gather Available Data:<\/strong> Collect any existing information. This might include conceptual sketches, site plans, program requirements, or historical data from similar projects. Our estimators leverage tools like Bluebeam for initial plan review and PlanSwift for quick area takeoffs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Select Estimating Method:<\/strong> Choose the most appropriate method based on data availability. Common methods include:\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Parametric Estimating:<\/strong> Uses statistical relationships between historical data and other variables (e.g., cost per square foot).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Analogous Estimating:<\/strong> Relies on the actual cost of previous, similar projects.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Assembly\/System Estimating:<\/strong> Breaks down the project into major components (e.g., foundation, shell, finishes) and estimates each.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We often utilize RSMeans cost data for reliable benchmarks.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Apply Cost Factors:<\/strong> Apply relevant cost factors such as location, market conditions, and inflation. Adjustments for specific site conditions or unique project requirements are also critical. This ensures the estimate reflects current realities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Add Contingencies and Allowances:<\/strong> Since preliminary estimates carry a higher degree of uncertainty, including a substantial contingency is vital. This accounts for unforeseen costs or scope changes. Allowances for specific, undefined items are also included.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Review and Refine:<\/strong> Thoroughly review the estimate with stakeholders. Discuss assumptions, potential risks, and areas of uncertainty. Refine the estimate based on feedback and any new information. This iterative process improves accuracy.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1969\" src=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"what is preliminary estimating in construction\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-scaled.jpeg 2560w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-1024x572.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-768x429.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-1536x857.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/infographic_How_to_Conduct_Preliminary_202605132350-2048x1143.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"tools-and-methods\">Tools and Methods for Conceptual Estimating<\/h2>\n<p>Modern conceptual estimating relies on a blend of proven methodologies and advanced software. This combination enhances accuracy and efficiency. Our team uses industry-leading software to produce reliable <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/cost-estimating-service\">cost estimates<\/a> quickly.<\/p>\n<h3>Key Software and Standards:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Bluebeam:<\/strong> For reviewing drawings, performing basic takeoffs, and collaborating on early design concepts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>PlanSwift:<\/strong> Offers powerful on-screen takeoff capabilities, allowing for rapid quantity extraction even from preliminary sketches.<\/li>\n<li><strong>RSMeans:<\/strong> Provides comprehensive, localized cost data essential for parametric and analogous estimating methods.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Autodesk Takeoff:<\/strong> Integrates with BIM models for more sophisticated conceptual quantity extraction as designs evolve.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Procore:<\/strong> Helps manage project data, providing a centralized platform for cost tracking and budget comparison.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CSI MasterFormat \/ Uniformat II:<\/strong> These standards provide structured frameworks for organizing cost data, ensuring consistency and completeness even at early stages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Comparison: Manual vs. Digital\/Software Methods<\/h3>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse;\" border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"5\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Factor<\/th>\n<th>Manual Method (Traditional)<\/th>\n<th>Digital\/Software Method (Modern)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Speed<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Slow, labor-intensive, prone to delays.<\/td>\n<td>Fast, automated calculations, rapid iterations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Accuracy<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Highly dependent on estimator&#8217;s experience; greater human error risk.<\/td>\n<td>High, data-driven, reduced calculation errors, consistent.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Lower initial software cost, higher labor cost over time.<\/td>\n<td>Higher initial software investment, significantly lower labor cost.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Scalability<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Limited, difficult to scale for large or multiple projects.<\/td>\n<td>High, easily handles complex projects and multiple simultaneous estimates.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Audit Trail<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Poor, difficult to track changes and assumptions.<\/td>\n<td>Excellent, detailed records of all inputs, changes, and assumptions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"real-world-example\">Real-World Example \u2014 How Phoenix Estimations Solved It<\/h2>\n<p>At Phoenix Estimations, our expertise in preliminary estimating has saved clients significant costs and prevented major disruptions. Consider a recent Tim Hortons franchise renovation project.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Project Type:<\/strong> Commercial Renovation (Tim Hortons Franchise)<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Challenge:<\/strong> During the initial conceptual phase, before detailed architectural plans were even complete, our client needed a quick, reliable budget estimate. The existing structure was old, and there were concerns about potential hidden issues that could derail the project budget and timeline.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Our Action:<\/strong> Our team performed a rapid preliminary estimate, utilizing historical data from similar quick-service restaurant renovations and an initial site assessment. Critically, our experienced estimators identified potential structural issues based on the building&#8217;s age and preliminary observations within hours. We developed an initial budget that included a robust contingency for these identified risks.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Measurable Outcome:<\/strong> The client was immediately presented with a revised estimate that highlighted these potential structural challenges and their associated costs. This early identification allowed them to conduct targeted structural surveys before finalizing design. The revised estimate secured client approval and enabled proactive planning. This saved them significant costs and avoided major delays that would have occurred if these issues were only discovered during demolition, well into the construction phase.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"common-mistakes\">Common Preliminary Estimating Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2>\n<p>Even seasoned professionals can fall prey to common errors in preliminary estimating. Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial for project success and budget adherence.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Insufficient Data Utilization:<\/strong> Relying on too little or outdated historical data leads to inaccurate projections. Always seek the most relevant and current benchmarks for your preliminary estimate construction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ignoring Market Conditions:<\/strong> Failing to account for current material costs, labor rates, and local economic factors can significantly skew an estimate. Market volatility requires constant awareness.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Underestimating Scope Creep:<\/strong> Preliminary estimates are often based on broad assumptions. Without clear communication and a robust change order process, the project scope can expand unnoticed, leading to budget overruns.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inadequate Contingency Planning:<\/strong> A common mistake is including too small a contingency, or none at all. Preliminary estimates inherently have a wider accuracy range, so a generous contingency (often 15-25%) is vital for managing unforeseen costs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lack of Stakeholder Alignment:<\/strong> Proceeding without all key stakeholders agreeing on the initial budget and scope assumptions can lead to costly rework and disputes later. Ensure everyone understands the estimate&#8217;s limitations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2 id=\"benefits-of-professional-services\">Benefits of Professional Preliminary Estimating Services<\/h2>\n<p>Engaging professional services for your preliminary estimating needs offers a clear competitive advantage. It transforms a complex, risky process into a streamlined, reliable one.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Enhanced Accuracy:<\/strong> Our team leverages advanced software and extensive historical data, providing more precise budget ranges than in-house estimates. This accuracy translates directly into better <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/preliminary-estimating-services\">feasibility estimating<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Significant Time Savings:<\/strong> We deliver fast turnaround times, allowing your team to focus on design and project development rather than getting bogged down in early-stage calculations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Reduced Risk:<\/strong> Our detailed analysis identifies potential cost drivers and risks early. This proactive approach helps you mitigate issues before they become expensive problems.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Improved Bid Win Rates:<\/strong> Presenting well-researched, realistic preliminary budgets instills confidence in clients and investors. This can significantly improve your chances of securing project funding.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Value Engineering Support:<\/strong> We help identify cost-saving opportunities at the conceptual stage. This ensures your project achieves its goals within budget without compromising quality.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>At Phoenix Estimations, our expertise in <a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/construction-estimating-service\">construction estimating services<\/a> ensures your preliminary estimates are not just numbers, but strategic tools for project success. We provide bid-ready deliverables that integrate seamlessly into your project planning.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"faq\">FAQ Section<\/h2>\n<h3>Q1: What is the primary purpose of a preliminary estimate in construction?<\/h3>\n<p>A preliminary estimate&#8217;s primary purpose is to establish an initial budget range and assess a project&#8217;s financial feasibility early on. It helps stakeholders make informed go\/no-go decisions before significant investment in detailed design. This early stage cost estimate guides initial planning and resource allocation effectively.<\/p>\n<h3>Q2: How accurate is a preliminary construction estimate compared to a final estimate?<\/h3>\n<p>A preliminary construction estimate, often a Class 5 estimate, typically has an accuracy range of +50% to -20%. This is much broader than a final estimate (Class 1), which has a range of +10% to -5%. The accuracy depends heavily on the level of design detail available and the quality of historical data used.<\/p>\n<h3>Q3: When should a conceptual estimate be prepared during a project lifecycle?<\/h3>\n<p>A conceptual estimate should be prepared at the very beginning of a project lifecycle, during the feasibility or pre-design phase. This occurs before detailed architectural and engineering plans are developed. It is essential for initial budget allocation, project concept validation, and securing early funding or approvals.<\/p>\n<h3>Q4: What information is essential for an order of magnitude estimate?<\/h3>\n<p>For an order of magnitude estimate, essential information includes project type, approximate size (e.g., square footage), location, and general quality level. Limited scope descriptions, conceptual sketches, and historical cost data from similar projects are also vital. Phoenix Estimations excels at extracting maximum value from minimal initial data.<\/p>\n<h3>Q5: Can preliminary estimating help with value engineering?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, preliminary estimating is crucial for effective value engineering. By providing early cost benchmarks, it allows project teams to identify and evaluate alternative materials, systems, or designs that can reduce costs without compromising functionality or quality. This process is most impactful before design finalization.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"key-takeaways\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Most Important Insight:<\/strong> Preliminary estimating is the foundational step for financial control in any construction project, preventing costly surprises later on.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Actionable Step:<\/strong> Prioritize a professional preliminary estimate to validate your project&#8217;s financial viability before committing to detailed designs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Business Risk If Ignored:<\/strong> Without a solid preliminary estimate, projects face significant risks of budget overruns, scope creep, and potential abandonment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>How Phoenix Estimations Addresses This Need:<\/strong> We provide precise, data-backed preliminary estimates that empower you to make informed decisions and secure your project&#8217;s financial success from day one.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f9f9f9; padding: 25px; border: 1px solid #ddd; text-align: center; margin: 30px 0;\">\n<h3 style=\"color: #2c3e50; margin-top: 0;\">Don&#8217;t Let Budget Uncertainty Derail Your Project<\/h3>\n<p>Navigating the early stages of a construction project without a clear financial roadmap can lead to significant headaches and unexpected costs. At Phoenix Estimations, we have delivered accurate trade-specific estimates and detailed takeoffs for 2,000+ projects across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors in the US and Canada \u2014 with turnaround times that match your bid schedule. Let our 15+ years of experience provide the clarity you need.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 20px;\"><a style=\"background-color: #007bff; color: white; padding: 12px 25px; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 5px; margin: 0 10px; display: inline-block;\" href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/construction-estimating-service\">Request a Construction Estimate<\/a><br \/>\n<a style=\"background-color: #28a745; color: white; padding: 12px 25px; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 5px; margin: 0 10px; display: inline-block;\" href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/quantity-takeoff-services\">Get a Professional Quantity Takeoff<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"margin-top: 20px;\">Or <a style=\"color: #007bff; text-decoration: none;\" href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/contactUs.php\">Contact us<\/a> to discuss your project needs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>Preliminary estimating is more than just an initial guess; it&#8217;s a strategic imperative. It lays the groundwork for financial success, mitigates risks, and ensures alignment among all project stakeholders. By investing in accurate early-stage cost assessments, you gain the power to make informed decisions, optimize designs, and avoid costly surprises down the road.<\/p>\n<p>At Phoenix Estimations, we understand the critical role of a precise preliminary estimate. Our team combines deep industry experience with advanced estimating software to provide the reliable data you need, even when design details are scarce. Don&#8217;t leave your project&#8217;s financial future to chance. Partner with us to establish a robust budget from the outset, ensuring your project remains on track and profitable from concept to completion.<\/p>\n<h2>Resources<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aacei.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AACE International<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.csinet.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CSI MasterFormat<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gordian.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gordian (RSMeans Data)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nibs.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.enr.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Engineering News-Record (ENR)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Understand preliminary estimating in construction and its vital role before final design. Learn how early cost insights prevent overruns. Get your project&#8217;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1967,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1940","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-preliminary-estimating"],"rttpg_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-scaled.jpeg",2560,1429,false],"landscape":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-scaled.jpeg",2560,1429,false],"portraits":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-scaled.jpeg",2560,1429,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-150x150.jpeg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-300x167.jpeg",300,167,true],"large":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-1024x572.jpeg",1024,572,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-1536x857.jpeg",1536,857,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/cover_What_Is_Preliminary_Estimating__202605132349-2048x1143.jpeg",2048,1143,true]},"rttpg_author":{"display_name":"AdminPhoenixBlogs","author_link":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/author\/adminphoenixblogs\/"},"rttpg_comment":0,"rttpg_category":"<a href=\"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/category\/preliminary-estimating\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Preliminary Estimating<\/a>","rttpg_excerpt":"Understand preliminary estimating in construction and its vital role before final design. Learn how early cost insights prevent overruns. Get your project'","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1940","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1940"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1940\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1970,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1940\/revisions\/1970"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1967"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1940"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1940"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/phoenixestimations.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1940"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}