When managing a commercial property like an office building, retail center, or apartment complex, one big expense is using outside vendors for services like landscaping, cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. It's important for property managers to get multiple bids from different vendors for any major service contract or one-time job. Here's why:
Getting multiple bids allows you to compare pricing and potentially save a lot of money. One vendor might quote you $5,000 for a parking lot repaving job, while another quotes $4,500 for the same scope of work. Going with the lower bid means saving money for the property owner.
Comparing multiple bids gives you a good idea of the going rate for a particular service in your local market. This helps ensure you don't overpay if you only get one bid that seems high. It also tells you which vendors are pricing competitively.
With multiple bids in hand, you have more leverage to negotiate with vendors to potentially lower their pricing. You can tell them you have competitive bids and see if they will come down in price to secure the contract.
Getting several bids allows you to look at factors beyond just price, like level of service, quality, experience, etc. This helps you find the best overall value, not just the cheapest option. Find the Best Value - Getting several bids allows you to look at factors beyond just price, like level of service, quality, experience, etc. This helps you find the best overall value, not just the cheapest option.
Soliciting bids from several vendors means you can cast a wide net and identify providers you may not have considered before. This leads to more options and potentially better pricing.
By taking the time to get multiple bids for any major vendor service, commercial property managers can save significant money for their clients while still obtaining quality services. It pays to put in the work on the front-end to get multiple competitive bids. Doing so can really maximize value and keep vendor costs as low as possible.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified financial advisor or investment professional before making any investment decisions.
Kaitlyn Page
Corporate Chief of Staff
North Star Commercial Real Estate AdvisorsKeller Williams Preferred Realty