Cost Estimation Example

Here's how I calculate project costs transparently, using a sample web application as an example.

My 4-Step Process

List every major piece of work needed

Realistic time estimates with buffer

Multiply hours by hourly rate

Rush work or advance payment options

Project: A custom e-commerce website with user accounts, product catalog, shopping cart, and payment processing.

Task	Hours	Description
Discovery & Planning	4	Requirements gathering, project scope definition
UI/UX Design	12	Wireframes, mockups, user experience design
Frontend Development	25	User interface implementation, responsive design
Backend Development	30	Server logic, database design, API development
Testing & QA	10	Bug testing, performance optimization, cross-browser testing
Deployment & Handoff	4	Production deployment, domain setup, go-live
Documentation/Training	5	User guides, technical documentation, client training
Buffer (15%)	13.5	Safety margin for unexpected challenges
Total Hours	103.5

103.5 hours × $65/hour = $6,727.5

This includes all development work plus a 15% buffer for unexpected challenges.

Need it done faster than normal timeline? Rush surcharge applies.

$6,727.5 + $2,355 = $9,082

Example with 35% rush surcharge

Pay the full amount upfront and save 20% on the total cost.

$6,727.5 - $1,346 = $5,382

20% discount for full advance payment

You see exactly what you're paying for and why.

Buffer time prevents surprises and scope creep.

You pay for actual work, not inflated estimates.

Every project is different. This is just an example—your actual quote will be customized to your specific needs.
Simple tasks (like connecting a payment API) might take 2–4 hours.
Complex tasks (like building an AI chatbot) might take 20–40+ hours.
Buffer time (10–25%) accounts for unexpected challenges and ensures quality delivery.

Tell me about your project and I'll provide a detailed, transparent estimate just like this one.