Separate selections from construction scope.
Describe the work to be built separately from finish selections. Identify where a product, quantity, or specification remains undecided so that a placeholder amount is not mistaken for a final price.
Make assumptions and exclusions visible.
Write down the assumptions behind the early range, including site access, existing conditions, design completeness, and exclusions. Keep unresolved items visible when comparing proposals.
Revisit the range as information improves.
Update the range when surveys, consultant input, design decisions, or trade information change the scope. Record why the range moved; a confirmed estimate depends on the agreed scope.