How to find discounts on building material

[Linna Li]

Hi everyone, I purchased a 2 family in Malden and going to work on renovations. Will be buying new floors, drywall, cabinets, etc. Does anyone know where or how to get bulk pricing for as an owner-builder? I'm looking to a lot of the work myself with the help of my dad (he's build houses and renovated numerous gut projects)

[Evan Polaski]

@Linna Li, I generally agree with Matthew, and it depends on your personal position how much you value your time versus spending more.

I generally prefer the building supply centers versus Lowes and Home Depot, if some are available.  They tend to cater to professionals more than the typical big box suppliers, and therefore offer better service, and often times at slightly better pricing.  I.e. I use McCabe Building Supply a lot in Cincinnati.  Their team knows a lot more than HD and Lowes, they have more flexible delivery times, and often times, because they deal with pro's they can help things like: how many drywall screws, tape and mud (and maybe corner beads) do I need when ordering 75 sheets of 4x8 drywall.  Things that are not always top of mind, especially if you are sort of newer.

They are new materials though, so not going to be like buying second hand.  

For deep discounts, where you have to spend a lot of time: get on FB marketplace.  People are always redoing kitchens and selling their old cabinets and appliances. Maybe you don't want to go that far.