Quick Overview
- 1#1: Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate - Delivers comprehensive job costing, project accounting, and financial management tailored for construction and real estate companies.
- 2#2: Trimble Viewpoint Vista - Offers robust ERP software with advanced accounting, job costing, and payroll features for large construction enterprises.
- 3#3: Foundation - Provides specialized construction accounting software focused on job costing, WIP reporting, and financial controls.
- 4#4: CMiC - Cloud-based ERP platform integrating construction accounting, project management, and resource planning.
- 5#5: Deltek Ajera - Streamlines project-based accounting, time tracking, and billing for architecture, engineering, and construction firms.
- 6#6: Procore - Combines construction management with financial tools for invoicing, job costing, and payment processing.
- 7#7: Buildertrend - All-in-one platform with accounting features for estimating, invoicing, and job financial tracking in residential construction.
- 8#8: Knowify - Cloud construction management software with integrated accounting, job costing, and QuickBooks sync for small to mid-sized contractors.
- 9#9: Corecon - Cloud-based tool for construction estimating, job costing, and accounting integration with QuickBooks.
- 10#10: Stack CT - Modern construction accounting software emphasizing job costing, AR/AP, and real-time financial insights.
We ranked these tools based on their ability to deliver precision in job costing, real-time financial insights, seamless integration with core workflows, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they address the unique demands of construction firms of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Construction project management and accounting software are vital for streamlining financial operations in the industry, and selecting the right solution requires careful evaluation of key features. This comparison table examines top tools like Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, Trimble Viewpoint Vista, Foundation, CMiC, Deltek Ajera, and more, providing insights into their capabilities. Readers will gain clarity on how each software aligns with diverse business needs, from project tracking to reporting, to make informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate Delivers comprehensive job costing, project accounting, and financial management tailored for construction and real estate companies. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Trimble Viewpoint Vista Offers robust ERP software with advanced accounting, job costing, and payroll features for large construction enterprises. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Foundation Provides specialized construction accounting software focused on job costing, WIP reporting, and financial controls. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | CMiC Cloud-based ERP platform integrating construction accounting, project management, and resource planning. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Deltek Ajera Streamlines project-based accounting, time tracking, and billing for architecture, engineering, and construction firms. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Procore Combines construction management with financial tools for invoicing, job costing, and payment processing. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | Buildertrend All-in-one platform with accounting features for estimating, invoicing, and job financial tracking in residential construction. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Knowify Cloud construction management software with integrated accounting, job costing, and QuickBooks sync for small to mid-sized contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Corecon Cloud-based tool for construction estimating, job costing, and accounting integration with QuickBooks. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | Stack CT Modern construction accounting software emphasizing job costing, AR/AP, and real-time financial insights. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
Delivers comprehensive job costing, project accounting, and financial management tailored for construction and real estate companies.
Offers robust ERP software with advanced accounting, job costing, and payroll features for large construction enterprises.
Provides specialized construction accounting software focused on job costing, WIP reporting, and financial controls.
Cloud-based ERP platform integrating construction accounting, project management, and resource planning.
Streamlines project-based accounting, time tracking, and billing for architecture, engineering, and construction firms.
Combines construction management with financial tools for invoicing, job costing, and payment processing.
All-in-one platform with accounting features for estimating, invoicing, and job financial tracking in residential construction.
Cloud construction management software with integrated accounting, job costing, and QuickBooks sync for small to mid-sized contractors.
Cloud-based tool for construction estimating, job costing, and accounting integration with QuickBooks.
Modern construction accounting software emphasizing job costing, AR/AP, and real-time financial insights.
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
enterpriseDelivers comprehensive job costing, project accounting, and financial management tailored for construction and real estate companies.
Advanced ProContractor job costing with automated WIP reports and profitability forecasting
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate (CRE) is a comprehensive ERP software tailored for construction and real estate firms, offering robust accounting, job costing, project management, and compliance tools. It streamlines financial operations like accounts payable/receivable, payroll, billing, and retained earnings tracking, while providing real-time insights into project profitability and costs. Designed for multi-company environments, it supports AIA billing, change orders, and subcontractor management to handle complex industry workflows efficiently.
Pros
- Exceptional job costing and forecasting capabilities with real-time data integration
- Highly customizable modules for construction-specific needs like AIA forms and lien waivers
- Strong multi-entity support and compliance tools for complex financial reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features requiring significant training
- Higher upfront costs and quote-based pricing not ideal for small firms
- Primarily on-premise with cloud options that may lag in mobile accessibility
Best For
Mid-to-large construction and real estate companies needing integrated accounting, job management, and financial compliance in a scalable ERP system.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $5,000-$20,000+ annually per company based on modules, users, and deployment (on-premise or cloud subscription).
Trimble Viewpoint Vista
enterpriseOffers robust ERP software with advanced accounting, job costing, and payroll features for large construction enterprises.
Multi-dimensional job costing that provides granular, real-time visibility into project profitability across phases, trades, and cost codes.
Trimble Viewpoint Vista is a robust, enterprise-grade ERP software tailored for construction companies, providing comprehensive accounting, job costing, payroll, and project management functionalities. It excels in handling complex financials like retainage, change orders, union payroll, and work-in-progress (WIP) reporting specific to construction workflows. Integrated with Trimble's suite of tools, it bridges office and field operations for mid-to-large contractors managing high-volume projects.
Pros
- Deep construction-specific accounting including multi-level job costing and WIP schedules
- Advanced payroll handling for unions, certified payroll, and prevailing wages
- Scalable enterprise architecture with strong integration to Trimble field tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- High upfront implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Primarily on-premise with limited native mobile features compared to cloud rivals
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms with complex financial needs, multiple job sites, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $30,000–$150,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and deployment (on-premise or cloud).
Foundation
specializedProvides specialized construction accounting software focused on job costing, WIP reporting, and financial controls.
Advanced Work-in-Progress (WIP) reporting with forecasting and variance analysis for precise project financial oversight
Foundation by Foundation Software is a robust, construction-specific accounting platform designed for contractors, offering advanced job costing, payroll with certified payroll support, accounts payable/receivable, general ledger, and equipment management. It excels in tracking project profitability through detailed WIP reports, change orders, and retainage billing. The software supports multi-entity operations and customizable reporting, making it a powerhouse for financial management in construction firms.
Pros
- Exceptional job costing with phase-level tracking and real-time profitability insights
- Handles complex construction payroll including certified payroll and union fringes seamlessly
- Highly customizable reports and dashboards for detailed financial analysis
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern cloud competitors
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront costs and primarily on-premise deployment
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms needing deep, industry-specific accounting with strong job cost control.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $10,000-$20,000 for setup plus $200-$500 per user/month for cloud (Foundation CONNECT) or perpetual licenses.
CMiC
enterpriseCloud-based ERP platform integrating construction accounting, project management, and resource planning.
Single-database architecture providing real-time data synchronization across all modules for unparalleled project financial visibility
CMiC is an enterprise-grade construction management platform that integrates ERP, project accounting, financial management, and field operations into a single database architecture. It excels in construction-specific accounting features like job costing, WIP reporting, revenue recognition per ASC 606, and compliance with industry regulations. Designed for mid-to-large construction firms, it unifies back-office processes with on-site project controls to enhance accuracy, visibility, and profitability.
Pros
- Comprehensive construction accounting with advanced job costing and multi-entity support
- Real-time integration across ERP, HR, payroll, and field management modules
- Robust reporting, analytics, and compliance tools tailored for construction regulations
Cons
- Complex interface with a steep learning curve for new users
- Lengthy and costly implementation process, often requiring customization
- High pricing suitable only for larger enterprises
Best For
Large construction companies with complex projects needing fully integrated enterprise accounting and project management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically subscription-based starting at $100,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and customization.
Deltek Ajera
enterpriseStreamlines project-based accounting, time tracking, and billing for architecture, engineering, and construction firms.
Interactive project profitability analyzer with real-time drill-down into costs, revenue, and margins
Deltek Ajera is a robust project-based ERP and accounting software tailored for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) firms, providing end-to-end financial management for project-driven businesses. It excels in time and expense tracking, job costing, invoicing, payroll integration, and real-time profitability analysis. Ajera integrates seamlessly with Microsoft tools and other Deltek solutions, offering customizable workflows to streamline construction accounting processes.
Pros
- Comprehensive project costing and WIP reporting for accurate financial visibility
- Strong integration with payroll, CRM, and Microsoft Office suite
- Customizable dashboards and reporting for AEC-specific needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface in some areas
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for small firms
- Limited native mobile app functionality compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-sized AEC firms requiring integrated project accounting with deep financial controls and profitability tracking.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $100-$200 per user/month depending on modules, users, and firm size; implementation fees apply.
Procore
enterpriseCombines construction management with financial tools for invoicing, job costing, and payment processing.
Real-time Job Costing Dashboard that syncs budgets, commitments, and actuals across the entire project lifecycle
Procore is a cloud-based construction management platform with robust accounting and financial tools designed specifically for the construction industry. It provides job costing, budgeting, invoicing, accounts payable/payable automation, change order management, and revenue recognition, all tightly integrated with project management features like scheduling and document control. This enables real-time financial visibility tied directly to project progress, reducing errors and improving cash flow management.
Pros
- Seamless integration of financial tracking with project data for accurate job costing and forecasting
- Comprehensive reporting and compliance tools tailored to construction accounting standards
- Strong mobile app and API integrations with ERP systems like QuickBooks and Sage
Cons
- High pricing that may not suit small firms
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Limited standalone accounting depth without full platform adoption
Best For
Mid-to-large construction companies seeking an integrated platform for project management and financial accounting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $500-$1,000+ per month based on users and modules, with annual contracts required.
Buildertrend
specializedAll-in-one platform with accounting features for estimating, invoicing, and job financial tracking in residential construction.
Real-time job costing dashboard that links budgets, actual costs, and forecasted completion with schedule dependencies
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform with robust accounting features tailored for builders, remodelers, and contractors. It provides job costing, budgeting, invoicing, change order management, and financial reporting integrated seamlessly with project scheduling and client communication tools. The software enables real-time cost tracking against budgets, A/R and A/P management, and QuickBooks integration for enhanced accounting accuracy. Overall, it bridges construction operations and financial oversight effectively.
Pros
- Comprehensive job costing and real-time budgeting tied to project schedules
- Integrated invoicing, payments, and change order approvals
- Mobile app for on-site expense tracking and financial updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or more projects
- Limited advanced accounting depth compared to dedicated ERP systems
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms needing integrated project management and accounting without multiple software tools.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per project for basic plans, with Pro plans around $399/month (up to 30 projects, multiple users); custom enterprise pricing available.
Knowify
specializedCloud construction management software with integrated accounting, job costing, and QuickBooks sync for small to mid-sized contractors.
Two-way QuickBooks sync that automatically posts job costs, invoices, and payments without manual entry
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for trade contractors, focusing on job costing, invoicing, project management, and financial tracking. It integrates deeply with QuickBooks for seamless accounting synchronization and provides mobile tools for field teams to handle time tracking, change orders, and payments. The platform helps contractors from estimating through closeout, emphasizing profitability analysis and AIA billing compliance.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for real-time financial sync
- Comprehensive job costing and profitability forecasting
- Mobile app for on-site time, expenses, and approvals
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing can be high for very small teams
- Limited advanced reporting without add-ons
Best For
Small to mid-sized trade contractors relying on QuickBooks who need integrated field and accounting management.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, with Pro at $199/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
Corecon
specializedCloud-based tool for construction estimating, job costing, and accounting integration with QuickBooks.
Excel-powered estimating that imports bid items directly into job costing sheets
Corecon is a cloud-based construction management platform focused on estimating, job costing, invoicing, and project accounting for contractors. It enables users to create detailed bids with digital takeoffs, track real-time job costs, manage subcontracts, and integrate seamlessly with QuickBooks for accounting. The software also includes CRM tools, document management, and mobile access for field teams, streamlining workflows from bid to closeout.
Pros
- Robust estimating and digital takeoff tools with Excel integration
- Real-time job costing and QuickBooks synchronization
- Comprehensive invoicing, A/R, and subcontract management
Cons
- Dated user interface requiring some adaptation
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Customization options are somewhat restricted
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors seeking integrated estimating and job costing without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at around $499/month for up to 5 users, scaling to $999+/month for larger teams; custom quotes available with a free trial.
Stack CT
specializedModern construction accounting software emphasizing job costing, AR/AP, and real-time financial insights.
Automated certified payroll and fringe benefit calculations compliant with Davis-Bacon and union requirements
StackCT is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for construction companies, providing specialized tools for job costing, payroll processing, invoicing, accounts payable/receivable, and financial reporting. It offers real-time visibility into project profitability by integrating field data like timecards and expenses directly into the general ledger. Designed to replace or augment QuickBooks for contractors, it emphasizes construction-specific workflows, compliance with certified payroll, and mobile accessibility for on-site teams.
Pros
- Intuitive, construction-focused interface that's easy for non-accountants
- Robust real-time job costing and profitability tracking
- Strong mobile app for time entry, expenses, and approvals
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to larger platforms
- Pricing can be steep for very small firms
- Advanced reporting requires some customization effort
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction contractors needing specialized job costing and payroll without general accounting complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $299/month for basic plans (1-5 users), scales to $999+/month for larger teams; annual billing discounts available.
Conclusion
The reviewed construction management accounting software tools each bring unique strengths, but Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate stands out as the top choice, offering a robust blend of job costing, project accounting, and financial management tailored to the industry. Trimble Viewpoint Vista and Foundation follow closely, providing exceptional alternatives for large enterprises and specialized needs respectively, ensuring there’s a solution for every firm’s requirements.
Begin your journey with Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate to streamline operations, gain deeper financial insights, and elevate your project management efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
