Evaluating Contractor Bids — A Guide for HOA Boards
Introduction
You’ve gathered bids — now what? HOA boards often face stacks of proposals with wildly different numbers. Without construction expertise, it’s nearly impossible to know which bid is realistic, which is risky, and which will cost more in the long run.
At Reeves Construction Advisors, we help HOAs go beyond the bottom line. Our bid evaluations uncover hidden costs, identify scope gaps, and give boards the confidence to choose wisely.
Why Bid Evaluations Are Difficult for HOAs
- Contractors format bids differently
- Low bids often exclude essential work
- Hidden costs buried in assumptions
- Boards lack the technical lens to compare apples to apples
Framework: 4 Red Flags in Contractor Bids
- Missing scope items
- No line-item breakdown
- “Allowances” or vague placeholders
- Lack of HOA/community project experience
Case Example: Community Pool Renovation
A board considered a “low” $400K bid. Reeves’ review revealed missing plumbing upgrades required by code — a hidden $100K risk. Another $480K bid was actually the better choice. The board avoided a costly mistake and kept homeowner trust intact.
Why Professional Bid Reviews Matter
- Protects HOA reserves from hidden costs
- Builds confidence in contractor selection
- Provides transparency to homeowners
- Reduces liability for board members
Conclusion + Call to Action
Choosing the right contractor isn’t just about picking a number — it’s about protecting your community’s investment. Our bid evaluations bring clarity and accuracy to the process, giving boards the confidence to choose the right partner every time.
👉 Don’t leave your next contractor decision to chance. Schedule a consultation with Reeves Construction Advisors today and let us help your HOA compare bids with confidence.
