What we mean by “actually costs”
A useful price guide needs two things:
- Real line items (what people paid / were quoted)
- Clear assumptions (where/when, what’s included, what isn’t)
Whenever possible we anchor a post on receipts, invoices, or itemized quotes, then explain the variables that change the total.
What we do (and don’t) include
- We include: taxes/fees when known, typical add-ons, and the common upsells to watch for.
- We don’t include: “best product” affiliate lists, sponsored recommendations, or unrealistic low-end teaser numbers.
Sources we use
Depending on topic, sources can include:
- invoices / receipts / itemized quotes
- public price lists and fee schedules
- documented labor-time guides (where relevant)
- government or industry datasets
Ranges and confidence
Many things vary by region, timing, and quality level. When we publish ranges, we try to make them:
- tight enough to be actionable
- wide enough to be honest
We’ll call out the biggest levers that move you from low → high.
Corrections
If you spot an error or have better sourcing, contact us. We’ll fix it.