Flame tree
why not get more involved in your strata?
Most SMs just have a roster of companies who supply services to the SMs clients. Because the tradies need to jump a few hurdles, it’s not easy to get on that roster. That means that prices are not really competitive.
There is nothing to stop you asking the SM if you can get your own quotes from tradies you find.
You may find that the SMs obtained prices are Ok or not; you’ll also find that the hassle of getting your own quotes ( your time and inconvenience) may justify using the SMs suppliers.
I’ve also noticed in the last few years that tradies are ramping their prices up A LOT.
They can because their are fewer people taking up trades, and the rise of franchised trade companies and the reduction of the small operator.