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The Best Residential Construction Estimating Companies of 2021
How We Chose the Best Residential Construction Estimating Software
Many residential construction estimating software tools claim to have the best, most comprehensive suite. For this list, we chose the best software solutions by rating three important criteria: estimating features, integrations, and reports.
Estimating Features
When it comes to assessing residential construction estimating software, we chose the ones that had complementary features that were essential to the entire process. For example, bid management is a desirable feature for any estimator solution. There are many intricacies when it comes to bidding, which is a different process than estimating. Adding scheduling features also make things less messy and more efficient. With the relationship between these processes, it makes sense to combine them in the estimating software.
Integrations
Being able to integrate with other applications expands the capabilities of the estimator software. For example, takeoff happens when the client and the contractor have a firm understanding of the project’s cost and scope. During this phase, some estimators will need to combine takeoff with their estimator software to create a seamless process. This and accounting software options are two of the more important integrations that the best construction estimator software has to offer customers.
Reports
Once all the data is gathered, managers need to keep an eye on what’s going on. Integrated or third-party reporting provides that necessary overview, which helps the estimator create more accurate project details. With that information, they can create summaries or even craft dashboards. Reporting means ensuring accuracy and transparency.
The 5 Best Residential Construction Estimating Software Tool of 2021
Buildertrend
Buildertrend is a residential construction estimation software solution that provides the tools for businesses to handle pre-sales, product management, finance, and customer management all in one location. Users can create automated drip campaigns with the help of customizable templates and the lead data stored in the CRM. Project managers can build and deliver proposals and collect digital signatures. They can roll bids into contracts and set up free automated notifications and alerts via email, text, or push notifications.
| Price | Free Trial/Demo | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free version available Core: $99 for the first 3 months, $299/month thereafter Premium: $299 for the first 3 months, $499/month thereafter | Free Demo | >Deployment: Web-based, cloud, SaaS, iPhone/iPad, Android >Customer service: Phone during business hours, online >CRM for creating, capturing, and closing prospects >Roll bids into contracts that can be digitally signed. >More features at Buildertrend |
Pros & Cons of Buildertrend
Pros:
- 30-day full money-back guarantee
- Month-to-month pricing
- Pre-built integrations with third-party solutions, such as QuickBooks and PlanSwift
Cons:
- Prices increase by $200 after the first 3 months
- Bidding only available at Pro level or higher
Clear Estimates
Built by and for remodelers, Clear Estimates is one of the few software solutions that relies on pricing data drawn from over 400 US locations instead of relying on national average cost. This means that material and labor prices are specific to each contractor’s area. With over 60 templates, customization is easy, especially for routine jobs. Proposals come preloaded with standard contract language, so professional, branded proposals are quick.
| Price | Free Trial/Demo | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard: $59/month Pro: $99/month Franchise: $249/month | 30-Day Free Trial | >Deployment: Windows, web-based, cloud, SaaS >Customer service: Phone during business hours, online >Area-specific pricing data >Preloaded customizable proposal templates >More features at Clear Estimates |
Pros & Cons of Clear Estimates
Pros:
- Localized pricing
- Affordable monthly cost
- 30-day free trial
Cons:
- Scheduling and project management not included
- Won’t work without internet access
- Limited integration option
CoConstruct
CoConstruct is a full-service residential construction estimating software suite that not only helps businesses streamline bidding and quoting but also has time tracking features for better field team management. Companies create professional proposals, invoices, and POs, and as a project progresses, managers can share 360-degree photos with clients. For more accurate budgeting, CoConstruct integrates with your accounting system.
| Price | Free Trial/Demo | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Self-service plan: $49/month for 2 months Full-service plan: Starts at $299/month | Free Demo | >Deployment: Web-based, cloud, SaaS, iPhone/iPad, Android >Customer service: Phone during business hours, online >Time tracking for managing field teams >Share 360-degree progress photos >More features at CoConstruct |
Pros & Cons of CoConstruct
Pros:
- Facilitates strong team and client communications
- More accurate budgeting
- Repository for managing all project data
Cons:
- Cost may be high for smaller businesses
- Does not include takeoff
Methvin
Methvin is a project management and estimation tool for contractors and builders. It facilitates posting projects, finding opportunities, and utilizing comparisons to help with more accurate quotes. It features a collaborative portal for easier communications, and the Methvin Gantt interface prioritizes tasks for project success.
| Price | Free Trial/Demo | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free version available Business: $27/month Enterprise: $165/month | Free Demo | >Deployment: Mac, Windows, web-based, cloud, SaaS, iPhone/iPad, Android >Customer service: 24/7 (live rep), online >Methvin Gantt interface >Collaborative portal for better communication >More features at Methvin |
Pros & Cons of Methvin
Pros:
- First 6 months of business plan are free
- Portal for better communication
- Price comparison for better accuracy
Cons:
- Limited third-party integration options
- No billing/invoicing solution
PlanSwift
PlanSwift is a construction takeoff software that can be tailored to fit the needs of numerous specialties, including HVAC, drywall, and landscaping. It features a point-and-click interface for dragging and dropping assemblies in the digitized blueprint. PlanSwift helps contractors to calculate materials and labor costs, which they can export to Excel for quicker calculations of estimates.
| Price | Free Trial/Demo | Features |
|---|---|---|
| PlanSwift Professional: $1,595 (includes 1 year support and updates) Updates & Support (after 1st year): $300/license/year 3-hour 1-on-1 custom training: $300 | 14-Day Free Trial | >Deployment: Windows >Customer service: Phone during business hours, online >Point-and-click interface for dragging and dropping >Can be tailored for numerous specialties >More features at PlanSwift |
Pros & Cons of PlanSwift
Pros:
- Point-and-click interface
- Plugins for multiple specialties
Cons:
- Only deployed on Windows desktop
- Limited software integrations