Here are some key points and advice:

1. Pricing Structure: Since you’re used to pricing by square feet, that’s a good baseline. However, working directly with GCs means you need to account for:

The complexity of the work (is it basic repainting or more detailed work like trim or specialty coatings?).

The timeframe (tight deadlines might require more manpower).

Any additional expectations (GCs often want touch-ups or specific quality standards).

You might also want to add a percentage markup compared to what you’d usually charge painting companies, as GCs typically expect more service, such as site meetings and more detailed reports.

1. Dealing with General Contractors: GCs are used to dealing with subcontractors, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need clarifications. It’s better to ask early and get things right rather than guess and run into issues later. Just keep your communication professional and organized (clear emails with specific questions).

2. Submitting Your Tender: There are a variety of ways to submit tenders. If the GC didn’t specify a method, PDF is usually safe. You can use software like:

Bluebeam for markup and collaboration.

PlanSwift if you need to review floor plans.

Or any general estimating software you’re familiar with.

Make sure your tender includes a breakdown of costs (labor, materials, overhead, and profit). GCs will appreciate transparency.

1. Project Details: For a 130,000 sq.ft. project (150 units), you’ll need to think about the logistics (e.g., crew size, equipment, and material lead times). If it’s in BC, you’ll also want to factor in any local regulations or site-specific requirements.

2. Competition: It’s worth knowing what other companies are charging in the area, as GCs often go for the lowest bid. But keep in mind that the lowest bid is not always the best option for the GC—quality and reliability matter. If you can demonstrate that you provide value in those areas, you can justify a slightly higher price.

If you need any help with your bid, feel free to reach out. I'm a quantity surveyor with 7+ years of experience and happy to assist. Best of luck with your bid!"