Consulting fee for contractor walk-through

[Mike Waltman]

So I've got a lead that came through my direct mail marketing that I will be following up on later today or this weekend. I have a little bit of construction experience and have read J. Scotts book on estimating rehab costs but this is my first time actually estimating rehab costs so I would like to get a more accurate opinion and learn from someone more qualified.

I have a connection with a contractor who has agreed to do the walk through with me and help me estimate the rehab costs. I'm still not sure what I'm going to do with the property if the numbers look good and my offer is accepted so they know there is a possibility they might not get the work, but I told him I would pay him for his time and he is good with that. 

What do you guys think is a fair rate for a basic walk-through estimating rehab costs?

[Wayne Brooks]

Probably$100 for a verbal estimate, not binding, on site.  More for a thoroughly organized written up estimate.  You just want to make sure you're not over looking the major stuff.