How Accurate Are Early Construction Cost Estimates?

[tom_holland]

I’m in the early planning stage of building a home and trying to understand how accurate initial cost estimates really are. Builders I’ve spoken with say final pricing depends on detailed drawings, but I’d like a realistic budget range before going too far into design.

I’ve read that using preliminary estimating services in usa can help create an early cost framework based on concept plans and typical construction costs. Has anyone here used this type of early estimate? Did it help keep your project on budget once final plans were done?

Would appreciate any real experiences or advice. Thanks!