Amazing product just takes some time

Xactware offers training at a cost which Im sure would help tremendously...Im just too cheap so I took the longer slower route. The program was truly a Godsend for me.

Pros

The program is very detailed down to the number of screws a particular job will require. It gives the amount of time you will need and gives you the flexibility to change prices inside the program to customize you particular market if those prices differ from the program but Ive found it to be spot on with my market.

Cons

The program is so detailed and full of options that it can be overwhelming...its definitely learnable it just takes time and commitment.

Good program, Simple yet sophisticated.

Xactimate is great for producing cost estimates contractors. I used it as a project manager under two GC's. As this was my first job doing this sort of work it was the first time using the program, but I found it was fairly easy to pick up. The search tool and descriptions helped me to find line items I otherwise might have forgotten to charge for. The sketching tool is great to help with dimensions and calculations (I did always have trouble w. stair cases for some reason though). Prices updated regularly and the print out is easy to read and understand for customers as well. Very straight forward and not confusing. Overall I'd recommend this product to any mitigation and restoration team and to contractors.

Pros

Ease of use, learning curve. Sketches are extremely helpful in calculating linear footages and areas (des take a little more to get good at) Prices update every month Simple, easy to understand print out summary of line items. A number of insurance companies use Xactimate so it was easy to discuss/ negotiate items in the estimates.

Cons

Did have some trouble getting sketches "just right", maybe some ease of use tools would be helpful for those of us not familiar w. CAD

Xactimate

I love Xactimate because it is the tool most used to make my living.

Pros

I like that it is widely accepted by insurance carriers. It is fairly simple to navigate.

Cons

There are a few categories that are not in line with market value. If you aren't aware of the deficiencies you could find yourself short on an estimate. Drywall is severely lacking compared to market value.

It's Necessary

Xactimate is necessary software for property adjusters. We have little choice but to pay the price they charge. It could be better. Finding proper line items is more difficult than need be. A tree menu would be helpful. Also, a little more flexibility in the amount of overhead and profit to be applied to specific line items (if the amount varies depending on the trade) would be nice.

Pros

Widely accepted by contractors and insurance companies for creating accurate repair estimates.

Cons

A little clunky at times. Hard to find needed line items unless you know exactly what you're looking for.

State of the Art Estimating Software

A must for anyone doing insurance restoration or remodeling

Pros

Recognized by most insurance companies, it is kept current and pricing can be modified by zip code. Excellent sketching tools

Cons

Steep learning curve, some glitches in import of pictures into the new version of Xactimate. Does not have some higher quality items and is probably a little low for commercial use.