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Residential Remodeling Estimating Software
Key Requirements for Residential Estimating
When we speak to residential contractors, the two primary criteria they have for estimating software are: 1) that it be easy to use; and, 2) that it is affordable. There are a number of systems that meet these criteria, but they vary in their feature breadth and sophistication. Below is a table of the top core modules you should look for as you evaluate residential estimating software.| Manage customers | Your residential estimating system should serve as a basic customer management system. For example, it should track your prospect and client contact information, as well as the notes you create when you interact with them. More advanced programs will help you organize and automate your new project sales pipeline. |
| Manage projects | While an estimating system does not function as a construction project management system, it should organize estimates by project and maintain information on each project. You should be able to pull up a client contact, select one of that client’s projects and see the estimates you have developed for that project. |
| Track material costs | The core of an estimating system is the ability to maintain an extensive database of materials. This database should be updated regularly with up-to-date prices for materials in your region through a subscription pricing service like RemodelMAX. You should also be able to modify this database yourself. |
| Manage assemblies | Rather than specify every 2x4 and nail you need for a job, you’ll want to create assemblies that combine all of the items needed to build a specific unit of work (e.g. a residential interior wall). Vendors should offer pre-built assemblies, as well as the ability to create custom assemblies. |
| Build and reuse templates | Templates are like assemblies at the project level. They allow the estimator to start with a completed estimate for a similar job (e.g. kitchen remodel) and then make modifications to make the estimate specific to the job that is being estimated. The system should come with a library of templates, and allow you to create custom templates. |
| Reflect change orders | Of course, things change during the pre-construction process and during the project. So, the system should enable you to process change orders in the system. The system should generate a change order report that illustrates the cost impact of the change. Finally, this feature should have a status for accepted, declined, pending, etc. |
| Generate reports and proposals | The output of your estimating activities should be well-formatted reports, contracts, and proposals that impress your clients with their professional level of detail and polish. The system should make it easy to customize these reports with your company logo and contact information, as well as contract terms specific to how you do business. |
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Contractor's Office
PrioSoft's primary focus is in the small residential market. The system offers a standalone estimating program that can be expanded to include features for onscreen takeoff, project management, CRM, and accounting.

Clear Estimates
Clear Estimates is built specifically for residential remodeling. The system is especially straightforward, intuitive, and affordable, making it a very popular option for remodelers looking for a straightforward estimating system.
GiddyUp
We often recommend GiddyUp to small residential homebuilders and remodelers due to the system's ease of use and low cost. It offers straightforward estimating with templates covering nearly all types of construction projects.
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