Too expensive? Cost check GU for extras

So basically I don’t find the prices unusual in principle. Descaling systems range widely. Ceiling spots? What kind of ceiling? €60 sounds like a price from 2009 not 2019. Price comparison between [GU] and individual contracts often is misleading due to different calculations. And if it’s not a concrete offer based on a tender, it’s an estimate and comparing apples to oranges.

I would also consider the prices normal, the pots for the ceiling spots are a bit too high. With us, they cost 75 euros in the concrete ceiling and 65 in the insulated beam ceiling [DG]. But they are flimsy things, not Kaiser.

Hello! This is the typical dilemma. Do I go through the general contractor, architect, or take it out for individual contracting. Regarding the descaling system, ask how big it was at the neighbors, €1800 including tax and installation is way too cheap, I don’t believe it!! Otherwise, internet prices can only be an indication. That is comparing apples to oranges. I can only warn against taking it out and awarding it yourself if it interferes with other trades. And!! I also tried to save a few euros on the system, every plumber refused in solidarity and asked to let the colleague do it. I thought that was okay. Better to ask and negotiate every item that seems too expensive to you before the ink is dry. Also address net/gross.

So I also find the prices absolutely okay.

Of course, it is far too imprecise since it is not known: Which system, which ceiling, which carport but on average I would say that is fair.

We are having discussions with a freelance architect and a local general contractor (GU). ... This week we received the construction description from the GU, and somehow I have the feeling that many "extras" are offered at a significantly overpriced rate.

Look into the business models. The GU makes its profit through the difference between construction cost and sales price. Extras are calculated with a margin. This margin also covers possibly increased coordination and planning efforts. The architect earns his profit through “intellectual services”. The coordination and planning efforts are not allocated to the “extras”. The margin for that goes to him. Another difference: The GU must adhere to the price he gives. The architect makes an estimate, which is non-binding. The lion’s share of the price results from the offers of the craft businesses that perform the service. We are building with an architect and local craft companies. The architect’s cost estimates have been exceeded in many areas – not least because we ordered further extras with the craftsmen in detailed matters. For us, that’s okay. Not for budget certainty.

We are basically faced with the question of whether to go with a general contractor or individual trades with an architect. I currently have the feeling that with individual contracts we are significantly cheaper price-wise with more flexibility...

Because you (for the third time) are comparing apples and oranges. The prices of the general contractor are good. Keep in mind: including installation and warranty and guarantee. If you want to compare various offers for dozens of extras, you’d rather do that with individual contracts. However, flexibility also involves negatives, such as price changes, no coordination, no time guarantees, etc. Discounted prices from acquaintances are often only weekend prices and not guaranteed. Illegal work no longer exists and wages as well as materials must be paid. The well-known boss also has back issues and his company costs. The well-known craftsman doesn’t always have time and must be insured.