Construction and trades · 14 min

Winning a bid without losing money

Every job starts with a number you promise before the work begins. Bid too high and you lose the job; too low and you win it and lose money.

Your business

Pick the business you'll run

Each lesson uses your pick for its numbers. You can change it any time.

What kind of contractor

Remodeling contractor

Kitchens, baths and additions for homeowners, with a plumber and an electrician brought in.

Plumbing and heating contractor

A specialty trade: pipes, water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning, done by your own licensed crew.

General contractor

Shops, offices and clinics, built mostly by subcontractors you hire and schedule.

Pick a business to start.

Sources and every number (8 sources)

Sources

2022 Economic Census, Construction: Summary Statistics for the U.S., States, and Selected Geographies (table EC2223BASIC; NAICS 236118 residential remodelers, 238220 plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors, 236220 commercial and institutional building construction) · U.S. Census Bureau, 2022
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 · Comfort Systems USA, Inc. (filed with the U.S. SEC), 2025
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025: national cross-industry estimates (carpenters, plumbers, machinists, bakers, cabinetmakers) · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025
Producer Price Index: inputs to residential construction, goods (series WPUIP2311001; September 2026 preliminary) · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2026
Business Employment Dynamics: Establishment age and survival data, Table 7, Survival of private sector establishments by opening year (total private and by industry, through March 2025) · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025
California Business and Professions Code section 7159 (home improvement contracts, including change orders; amended by SB 517, effective January 1, 2026) · California Legislative Information, 2026
California Business and Professions Code section 7159.5 (home improvement contracts: contract amount, down payment and progress payments) · California Legislative Information, 2026
California Business and Professions Code section 7048 (small jobs that don't need a contractor's license; amended by AB 1170, effective January 1, 2026) · California Legislative Information, 2026

Every number

$129.1Bcensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: what residential remodelers took in during 2022 (the table is in thousands of dollars).
$297.6Bcensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in during 2022 (the table is in thousands of dollars).
$585.6Bcensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: what commercial and institutional builders took in during 2022 (the table is in thousands of dollars).
24.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Everything else, and profit (what's left after materials, subcontractors, payroll and benefits) as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
26.5%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Everything else, and profit (what's left after materials, subcontractors, payroll and benefits) as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
17.6%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Everything else, and profit (what's left after materials, subcontractors, payroll and benefits) as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
$9.1Bsec.gov ·2025 · Comfort Systems USA, fiscal 2025: revenue.
24.1%sec.gov ·2025 · Comfort Systems USA, fiscal 2025: gross profit (revenue minus the cost of doing the work) as a share of revenue.
14.4%sec.gov ·2025 · Comfort Systems USA, fiscal 2025: operating income (profit before interest and taxes) as a share of revenue.
$100 (example number: Simplified example: a hundred dollars of what the business took in.) · Simplified example: a hundred dollars of what the business took in.
35%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Materials and supplies as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
19.3%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Work subcontracted out to other contractors as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
18.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Pay for everyone on the payroll as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
3.4%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Benefits and payroll taxes as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
3.2 peoplecensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: residential remodelers' employees divided by how many remodeling businesses there were, 2022.
$35 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$19.30 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$18.10 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$3.40 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$24.20 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share of everything else and profit applied to an example hundred dollars and rounded up a dime so the five layers add to exactly the hundred.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share of everything else and profit applied to an example hundred dollars and rounded up a dime so the five layers add to exactly the hundred.
31.5%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Materials, equipment and supplies as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
7.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Work subcontracted out to other contractors as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
27%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Pay for everyone on the payroll as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
7.9%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Benefits and payroll taxes as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
$31.50 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$7.10 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$27 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$7.90 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$26.50 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
24.6%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Materials and supplies they bought themselves as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
45.4%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Work subcontracted out to other contractors as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
9.8%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Pay for everyone on the payroll as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
2.6%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Benefits and payroll taxes as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
$24.60 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$45.40 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$9.80 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$2.60 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$17.60 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
19.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: residential remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes divided by their payroll, 2022.
29.4%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors' benefits and payroll taxes divided by their payroll, 2022.
26%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: commercial and institutional builders' benefits and payroll taxes divided by their payroll, 2022.
$29.12/hourbls.gov ·2025 · Median hourly wage of carpenters in the US, all industries, May 2025.
$30.67/hourbls.gov ·2025 · Median hourly wage of plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters in the US, all industries, May 2025.
$6,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: tile, vanity, toilet, fixtures and drywall.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: tile, vanity, toilet, fixtures and drywall.
120 hours (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours.
$35/hour (example number: Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.) · Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.
$4,200 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.
$3,400 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the plumber's and electrician's quotes.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the plumber's and electrician's quotes.
$800 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the permit and a dumpster.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the permit and a dumpster.
$14,400 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
$1,440 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the contingency, worked out.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the contingency, worked out.
15% (example number: Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.
$2,160 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.
$18,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
10% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
$2,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the profit, worked out.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the profit, worked out.
$20,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
11.1% (example number: Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.) · Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.
$8,000 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the furnace, the air conditioner and the parts to fit them.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the furnace, the air conditioner and the parts to fit them.
32 hours (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours.
$40/hour (example number: Simplified example: the plumber's median wage plus these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.) · Simplified example: the plumber's median wage plus these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.
$1,280 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.
$680 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: an electrician's quote for the new wiring.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: an electrician's quote for the new wiring.
$600 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the permit and hauling the old units away.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the permit and hauling the old units away.
$10,560 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
$528 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the contingency, worked out.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the contingency, worked out.
20% (example number: Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.
$2,112 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.
$13,200 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
12% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
$1,800 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the profit, worked out.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the profit, worked out.
$15,000 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
13.6% (example number: Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.) · Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.
$210,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the electrical, plumbing, heating, drywall and flooring subcontractors' quotes.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the electrical, plumbing, heating, drywall and flooring subcontractors' quotes.
$60,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: doors, cabinets and fixtures you buy yourself.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: doors, cabinets and fixtures you buy yourself.
800 hours (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours.
$37/hour (example number: Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.) · Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.
$29,600 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the crew rate.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the crew rate.
$20,400 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.
$320,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
$16,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the contingency, worked out.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the contingency, worked out.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.
$32,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.
$368,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
8% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
$32,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the profit, worked out.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the profit, worked out.
$400,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
8.7% (example number: Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.) · Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.
9.7%bls.gov ·2026 · Worked out from the BLS index: how much the prices of goods that go into building homes rose from September 2025 to September 2026 (September 2026 is preliminary).
41.2%bls.gov ·2026 · Worked out from the BLS index: how much the prices of goods that go into building homes rose from January 2020 to June 2022.
$12,000 (example number: Simplified example: a deck job's direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a deck job's direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
20% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
80% (example number: Worked out: what's left of the price after the profit.) · Worked out: what's left of the price after the profit.
$15,000 (example number: Worked out: the example cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Worked out: the example cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
$3,000 (example number: Worked out from the example: the bid minus the cost.) · Worked out from the example: the bid minus the cost.
$14,400 (example number: Worked out: the example cost plus the margin's percentage of the cost, the common mistake.) · Worked out: the example cost plus the margin's percentage of the cost, the common mistake.
$2,400 (example number: Worked out from the example: that price minus the cost.) · Worked out from the example: that price minus the cost.
16.7% (example number: Worked out from the example: that profit divided by that price.) · Worked out from the example: that profit divided by that price.
$3,494 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.
$667 (example number: Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.) · Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.
$981 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.
$289 (example number: Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.) · Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.
$23,296 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the bare median carpenter wage.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the bare median carpenter wage.
$6,057 (example number: Worked out: the bare-wage line times commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.) · Worked out: the bare-wage line times commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.
$23,500 (example number: Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the bathroom.) · Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the bathroom.
$1,800 (example number: Simplified example: frameless shower glass the estimate left out.) · Simplified example: frameless shower glass the estimate left out.
$1,200 (example number: Simplified example: replacing rotted subfloor found behind the old tile.) · Simplified example: replacing rotted subfloor found behind the old tile.
$17,800 (example number: Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the furnace job.) · Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the furnace job.
$900 (example number: Simplified example: a new gas line to the furnace that the estimate left out.) · Simplified example: a new gas line to the furnace that the estimate left out.
$1,100 (example number: Simplified example: old ductwork that falls apart when the furnace comes out.) · Simplified example: old ductwork that falls apart when the furnace comes out.
$455,000 (example number: Simplified example: the next-lowest of four bids for the dental office.) · Simplified example: the next-lowest of four bids for the dental office.
$24,000 (example number: Simplified example: lead-lined walls for the X-ray room, on a drawing the estimate skipped.) · Simplified example: lead-lined walls for the X-ray room, on a drawing the estimate skipped.
$9,000 (example number: Simplified example: leveling a concrete floor that turned out uneven.) · Simplified example: leveling a concrete floor that turned out uneven.
57.5%bls.gov ·2025 · Share of construction locations that opened in the year to March 2015 and were still open in March 2020. Private businesses with employees, counted by location, from the BLS survival tables.
$14,000 (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's cabinets and counters.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's cabinets and counters.
$4,000 (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's other materials: flooring, lights, paint, drywall.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's other materials: flooring, lights, paint, drywall.
200 hours (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's crew hours.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's crew hours.
$5,500 (example number: Simplified example: the plumber's and electrician's quotes for a kitchen.) · Simplified example: the plumber's and electrician's quotes for a kitchen.
$1,200 (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's permit and dumpster.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's permit and dumpster.
$3,800 (example number: Simplified example: pipe, fittings and valves to repipe an older house.) · Simplified example: pipe, fittings and valves to repipe an older house.
60 hours (example number: Simplified example: the crew's hours to repipe an older house.) · Simplified example: the crew's hours to repipe an older house.
$1,500 (example number: Simplified example: a drywall sub's quote to patch the walls opened for the pipes.) · Simplified example: a drywall sub's quote to patch the walls opened for the pipes.
$450 (example number: Simplified example: the plumbing permit.) · Simplified example: the plumbing permit.
$260,000 (example number: Simplified example: the subcontractors' quotes to turn an empty shop into a café.) · Simplified example: the subcontractors' quotes to turn an empty shop into a café.
$55,000 (example number: Simplified example: materials you buy yourself for the café: doors, counters, fixtures.) · Simplified example: materials you buy yourself for the café: doors, counters, fixtures.
900 hours (example number: Simplified example: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours on the café.) · Simplified example: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours on the café.
$25,000 (example number: Simplified example: the café job's permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.) · Simplified example: the café job's permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
15% (example number: Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.
8% (example number: Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.) · Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.) · Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.
20% (example number: Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.) · Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.

Construction and trades · 14 min

Winning a bid without losing money

Every job starts with a number you promise before the work begins. Bid too high and you lose the job; too low and you win it and lose money.

Your business

Pick the business you'll run

Each lesson uses your pick for its numbers. You can change it any time.

What kind of contractor

Remodeling contractor

Kitchens, baths and additions for homeowners, with a plumber and an electrician brought in.

Plumbing and heating contractor

A specialty trade: pipes, water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning, done by your own licensed crew.

General contractor

Shops, offices and clinics, built mostly by subcontractors you hire and schedule.

Pick a business to start.

Sources and every number (8 sources)

Sources

2022 Economic Census, Construction: Summary Statistics for the U.S., States, and Selected Geographies (table EC2223BASIC; NAICS 236118 residential remodelers, 238220 plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors, 236220 commercial and institutional building construction) · U.S. Census Bureau, 2022
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 · Comfort Systems USA, Inc. (filed with the U.S. SEC), 2025
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025: national cross-industry estimates (carpenters, plumbers, machinists, bakers, cabinetmakers) · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025
Producer Price Index: inputs to residential construction, goods (series WPUIP2311001; September 2026 preliminary) · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2026
Business Employment Dynamics: Establishment age and survival data, Table 7, Survival of private sector establishments by opening year (total private and by industry, through March 2025) · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025
California Business and Professions Code section 7159 (home improvement contracts, including change orders; amended by SB 517, effective January 1, 2026) · California Legislative Information, 2026
California Business and Professions Code section 7159.5 (home improvement contracts: contract amount, down payment and progress payments) · California Legislative Information, 2026
California Business and Professions Code section 7048 (small jobs that don't need a contractor's license; amended by AB 1170, effective January 1, 2026) · California Legislative Information, 2026

Every number

$129.1Bcensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: what residential remodelers took in during 2022 (the table is in thousands of dollars).
$297.6Bcensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in during 2022 (the table is in thousands of dollars).
$585.6Bcensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: what commercial and institutional builders took in during 2022 (the table is in thousands of dollars).
24.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Everything else, and profit (what's left after materials, subcontractors, payroll and benefits) as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
26.5%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Everything else, and profit (what's left after materials, subcontractors, payroll and benefits) as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
17.6%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Everything else, and profit (what's left after materials, subcontractors, payroll and benefits) as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
$9.1Bsec.gov ·2025 · Comfort Systems USA, fiscal 2025: revenue.
24.1%sec.gov ·2025 · Comfort Systems USA, fiscal 2025: gross profit (revenue minus the cost of doing the work) as a share of revenue.
14.4%sec.gov ·2025 · Comfort Systems USA, fiscal 2025: operating income (profit before interest and taxes) as a share of revenue.
$100 (example number: Simplified example: a hundred dollars of what the business took in.) · Simplified example: a hundred dollars of what the business took in.
35%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Materials and supplies as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
19.3%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Work subcontracted out to other contractors as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
18.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Pay for everyone on the payroll as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
3.4%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Benefits and payroll taxes as a share of what residential remodelers took in, 2022.
3.2 peoplecensus.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: residential remodelers' employees divided by how many remodeling businesses there were, 2022.
$35 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$19.30 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$18.10 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$3.40 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$24.20 (example number: Simplified example: remodelers' Census share of everything else and profit applied to an example hundred dollars and rounded up a dime so the five layers add to exactly the hundred.) · Simplified example: remodelers' Census share of everything else and profit applied to an example hundred dollars and rounded up a dime so the five layers add to exactly the hundred.
31.5%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Materials, equipment and supplies as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
7.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Work subcontracted out to other contractors as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
27%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Pay for everyone on the payroll as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
7.9%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Benefits and payroll taxes as a share of what plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors took in, 2022.
$31.50 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$7.10 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$27 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$7.90 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$26.50 (example number: Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: plumbing and heating contractors' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
24.6%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Materials and supplies they bought themselves as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
45.4%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Work subcontracted out to other contractors as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
9.8%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Pay for everyone on the payroll as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
2.6%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: Benefits and payroll taxes as a share of what commercial and institutional builders took in, 2022.
$24.60 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$45.40 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$9.80 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$2.60 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
$17.60 (example number: Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.) · Simplified example: commercial builders' Census share applied to an example hundred dollars.
19.1%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: residential remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes divided by their payroll, 2022.
29.4%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors' benefits and payroll taxes divided by their payroll, 2022.
26%census.gov ·2022 · Worked out from the 2022 Economic Census: commercial and institutional builders' benefits and payroll taxes divided by their payroll, 2022.
$29.12/hourbls.gov ·2025 · Median hourly wage of carpenters in the US, all industries, May 2025.
$30.67/hourbls.gov ·2025 · Median hourly wage of plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters in the US, all industries, May 2025.
$6,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: tile, vanity, toilet, fixtures and drywall.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: tile, vanity, toilet, fixtures and drywall.
120 hours (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours.
$35/hour (example number: Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.) · Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.
$4,200 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.
$3,400 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the plumber's and electrician's quotes.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the plumber's and electrician's quotes.
$800 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the permit and a dumpster.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the permit and a dumpster.
$14,400 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
$1,440 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the contingency, worked out.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the contingency, worked out.
15% (example number: Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.
$2,160 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.
$18,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
10% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
$2,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the profit, worked out.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the profit, worked out.
$20,000 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
11.1% (example number: Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.) · Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.
$8,000 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the furnace, the air conditioner and the parts to fit them.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the furnace, the air conditioner and the parts to fit them.
32 hours (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours.
$40/hour (example number: Simplified example: the plumber's median wage plus these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.) · Simplified example: the plumber's median wage plus these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.
$1,280 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the crew rate.
$680 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: an electrician's quote for the new wiring.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: an electrician's quote for the new wiring.
$600 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the permit and hauling the old units away.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the permit and hauling the old units away.
$10,560 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
$528 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the contingency, worked out.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the contingency, worked out.
20% (example number: Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.
$2,112 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.
$13,200 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
12% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
$1,800 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the profit, worked out.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the profit, worked out.
$15,000 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
13.6% (example number: Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.) · Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.
$210,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the electrical, plumbing, heating, drywall and flooring subcontractors' quotes.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the electrical, plumbing, heating, drywall and flooring subcontractors' quotes.
$60,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: doors, cabinets and fixtures you buy yourself.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: doors, cabinets and fixtures you buy yourself.
800 hours (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours.
$37/hour (example number: Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.) · Simplified example: the carpenter's median wage plus commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes, rounded.
$29,600 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the crew rate.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the crew rate.
$20,400 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.
$320,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the four direct-cost lines added up.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
$16,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the contingency, worked out.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the contingency, worked out.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a share of the business's overhead, as a share of the direct cost.
$32,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the overhead share, worked out.
$368,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
8% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
$32,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the profit, worked out.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the profit, worked out.
$400,000 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: the full cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
8.7% (example number: Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.) · Worked out from the example: the profit divided by the full cost.
9.7%bls.gov ·2026 · Worked out from the BLS index: how much the prices of goods that go into building homes rose from September 2025 to September 2026 (September 2026 is preliminary).
41.2%bls.gov ·2026 · Worked out from the BLS index: how much the prices of goods that go into building homes rose from January 2020 to June 2022.
$12,000 (example number: Simplified example: a deck job's direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.) · Simplified example: a deck job's direct cost, contingency and overhead added up.
20% (example number: Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: the profit wanted, as a share of the price.
80% (example number: Worked out: what's left of the price after the profit.) · Worked out: what's left of the price after the profit.
$15,000 (example number: Worked out: the example cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.) · Worked out: the example cost divided by what's left of the price after profit.
$3,000 (example number: Worked out from the example: the bid minus the cost.) · Worked out from the example: the bid minus the cost.
$14,400 (example number: Worked out: the example cost plus the margin's percentage of the cost, the common mistake.) · Worked out: the example cost plus the margin's percentage of the cost, the common mistake.
$2,400 (example number: Worked out from the example: that price minus the cost.) · Worked out from the example: that price minus the cost.
16.7% (example number: Worked out from the example: that profit divided by that price.) · Worked out from the example: that profit divided by that price.
$3,494 (example number: Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.) · Simplified example: a bathroom remodel's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.
$667 (example number: Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.) · Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times remodelers' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.
$981 (example number: Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.) · Simplified example: a furnace and air-conditioner replacement's estimate: the crew's hours at the bare median wage, rounded to the dollar.
$289 (example number: Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.) · Worked out: the bare-wage crew line times these contractors' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.
$23,296 (example number: Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the bare median carpenter wage.) · Simplified example: a dental office fit-out's estimate: your own people's hours at the bare median carpenter wage.
$6,057 (example number: Worked out: the bare-wage line times commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.) · Worked out: the bare-wage line times commercial builders' benefits and payroll taxes share, rounded.
$23,500 (example number: Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the bathroom.) · Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the bathroom.
$1,800 (example number: Simplified example: frameless shower glass the estimate left out.) · Simplified example: frameless shower glass the estimate left out.
$1,200 (example number: Simplified example: replacing rotted subfloor found behind the old tile.) · Simplified example: replacing rotted subfloor found behind the old tile.
$17,800 (example number: Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the furnace job.) · Simplified example: the next-lowest of three bids for the furnace job.
$900 (example number: Simplified example: a new gas line to the furnace that the estimate left out.) · Simplified example: a new gas line to the furnace that the estimate left out.
$1,100 (example number: Simplified example: old ductwork that falls apart when the furnace comes out.) · Simplified example: old ductwork that falls apart when the furnace comes out.
$455,000 (example number: Simplified example: the next-lowest of four bids for the dental office.) · Simplified example: the next-lowest of four bids for the dental office.
$24,000 (example number: Simplified example: lead-lined walls for the X-ray room, on a drawing the estimate skipped.) · Simplified example: lead-lined walls for the X-ray room, on a drawing the estimate skipped.
$9,000 (example number: Simplified example: leveling a concrete floor that turned out uneven.) · Simplified example: leveling a concrete floor that turned out uneven.
57.5%bls.gov ·2025 · Share of construction locations that opened in the year to March 2015 and were still open in March 2020. Private businesses with employees, counted by location, from the BLS survival tables.
$14,000 (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's cabinets and counters.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's cabinets and counters.
$4,000 (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's other materials: flooring, lights, paint, drywall.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's other materials: flooring, lights, paint, drywall.
200 hours (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's crew hours.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's crew hours.
$5,500 (example number: Simplified example: the plumber's and electrician's quotes for a kitchen.) · Simplified example: the plumber's and electrician's quotes for a kitchen.
$1,200 (example number: Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's permit and dumpster.) · Simplified example: a kitchen remodel's permit and dumpster.
$3,800 (example number: Simplified example: pipe, fittings and valves to repipe an older house.) · Simplified example: pipe, fittings and valves to repipe an older house.
60 hours (example number: Simplified example: the crew's hours to repipe an older house.) · Simplified example: the crew's hours to repipe an older house.
$1,500 (example number: Simplified example: a drywall sub's quote to patch the walls opened for the pipes.) · Simplified example: a drywall sub's quote to patch the walls opened for the pipes.
$450 (example number: Simplified example: the plumbing permit.) · Simplified example: the plumbing permit.
$260,000 (example number: Simplified example: the subcontractors' quotes to turn an empty shop into a café.) · Simplified example: the subcontractors' quotes to turn an empty shop into a café.
$55,000 (example number: Simplified example: materials you buy yourself for the café: doors, counters, fixtures.) · Simplified example: materials you buy yourself for the café: doors, counters, fixtures.
900 hours (example number: Simplified example: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours on the café.) · Simplified example: your superintendent's and carpenters' hours on the café.
$25,000 (example number: Simplified example: the café job's permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.) · Simplified example: the café job's permits, dumpsters, temporary power and cleanup.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
15% (example number: Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting contingency, as a share of the direct cost.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.) · Simplified example: a starting overhead share, as a share of the direct cost.
8% (example number: Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.) · Simplified example: a starting profit target, as a share of the price.
5% (example number: Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.) · Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.
10% (example number: Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.) · Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.
20% (example number: Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.) · Simplified example: a what-if for the stress test, how far the job runs over its direct cost.

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Winning a bid without losing money

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