What to budget before the real quotes arrive

Early money conversations work best when one number means one thing. Homehint separates planning budgets from real quotes on purpose.

Start with a goal total and a category mix — foundations, structure, roof, fees, contingency and the rest of your project type’s typical shape. That mix is a planning tool you can improve as you learn more.

As real quotes land, attach the amount and the supplier. Your categories update so Today’s money snapshot stays clear. On Pro, refine can nudge the planning mix and explain why — still anchored to your total.

If you’re early, use the guided provisional budget in Money. If you’re mid-project, keep tracking against categories so cash timing stays visible when deposits and long-lead items arrive.

The goal isn’t a perfect spreadsheet on day one. It’s one clear picture of what you’ve assumed versus what you’ve actually agreed.