I'm currently overseeing a multi-phase building project where costs are starting to shift between early projections and actual contractor pricing. As the design evolves and scope details become clearer, we're seeing small variations across trades that are gradually pushing the overall budget upward.
I'm trying to understand what processes or controls experienced teams use to keep cost projections aligned with real construction pricing throughout design development and procurement. Recently, a consultant mentioned that maintaining consistency through accurate building estimating services (https://kellyestimating.com/) at each milestone stage helps prevent quantity gaps, scope overlaps, and allowance miscalculations before they compound.
For those who've managed similar building projects, what strategies or checkpoints have worked best to maintain cost accuracy from concept through tender? Would appreciate any practical insights.