Quick Overview
- 1#1: Xactimate - Industry-standard software for precise property damage repair estimating used by insurance adjusters and restoration contractors.
- 2#2: Sage Estimating - Comprehensive construction estimating solution with database-driven assemblies and integration with accounting systems.
- 3#3: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software that streamlines bid management for construction professionals.
- 4#4: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from blueprints for faster property cost calculations.
- 5#5: Buildxact - User-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 6#6: Stack - AI-powered cloud takeoff and estimating platform for electrical, mechanical, and general construction trades.
- 7#7: CostX - Advanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with BIM model integration for accurate property valuations.
- 8#8: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based toolkit for digital takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating in construction workflows.
- 9#9: Clear Estimates - Simple, affordable estimating software that generates professional proposals for contractors and remodelers.
- 10#10: Methvin - Cloud-based estimating platform with customizable templates for construction and property development projects.
We evaluated these tools based on precision, feature depth (including takeoff automation and system integration), usability, and value, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits across various professional workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table guides property professionals through top estimating software, including Xactimate, Sage Estimating, ProEst, PlanSwift, and Buildxact, by outlining key features, practical uses, and standout strengths. Readers will discover which tool aligns best with their project needs, from cost breakdown precision to integration capabilities.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Xactimate Industry-standard software for precise property damage repair estimating used by insurance adjusters and restoration contractors. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Sage Estimating Comprehensive construction estimating solution with database-driven assemblies and integration with accounting systems. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software that streamlines bid management for construction professionals. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from blueprints for faster property cost calculations. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 5 | Buildxact User-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Stack AI-powered cloud takeoff and estimating platform for electrical, mechanical, and general construction trades. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | CostX Advanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with BIM model integration for accurate property valuations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based toolkit for digital takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating in construction workflows. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Clear Estimates Simple, affordable estimating software that generates professional proposals for contractors and remodelers. | other | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | Methvin Cloud-based estimating platform with customizable templates for construction and property development projects. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Industry-standard software for precise property damage repair estimating used by insurance adjusters and restoration contractors.
Comprehensive construction estimating solution with database-driven assemblies and integration with accounting systems.
Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software that streamlines bid management for construction professionals.
Digital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from blueprints for faster property cost calculations.
User-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
AI-powered cloud takeoff and estimating platform for electrical, mechanical, and general construction trades.
Advanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with BIM model integration for accurate property valuations.
PDF-based toolkit for digital takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating in construction workflows.
Simple, affordable estimating software that generates professional proposals for contractors and remodelers.
Cloud-based estimating platform with customizable templates for construction and property development projects.
Xactimate
specializedIndustry-standard software for precise property damage repair estimating used by insurance adjusters and restoration contractors.
Proprietary daily-updated pricing database with over 900 line categories, regionally adjusted for unparalleled accuracy in property claims estimating
Xactimate is the gold standard in property estimating software, widely used by insurance adjusters, restoration contractors, and builders to create detailed, line-item estimates for property damage claims. It offers a vast database of over 820 line items with real-time, regionally adjusted pricing updated daily. Advanced tools include 3D sketching for roof and room diagrams, mobile accessibility, and seamless integration with reporting platforms like XactAnalysis for insurer submissions.
Pros
- Industry-leading accuracy with daily-updated, region-specific pricing database
- Powerful 3D sketching and diagramming tools for precise visualizations
- Broad acceptance by insurers and seamless integrations for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training time
- High subscription costs that may deter small businesses
- Occasional performance issues on lower-end hardware or during peak usage
Best For
Professional insurance adjusters and property restoration contractors handling high-volume claims who require insurer-accepted, precise estimates.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$249/month for Essentials (basic access) up to $569/month for Elite (full features), with annual discounts and per-user licensing.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseComprehensive construction estimating solution with database-driven assemblies and integration with accounting systems.
Intelligent Visual Assemblies database with over 24,000 pre-built, parametric assemblies for rapid, accurate property cost modeling
Sage Estimating is a powerful construction estimating software designed for property professionals, enabling detailed cost projections for projects ranging from renovations to large developments. It leverages an extensive national database of over 24,000 line items, assemblies, and labor rates for accurate, data-driven estimates. The platform supports digital takeoff integration, customizable formulas with conditional logic, and seamless connectivity to Sage accounting and project management tools. This makes it a comprehensive solution for streamlining bid preparation and cost control in property estimating workflows.
Pros
- Vast, regularly updated cost databases and assemblies for precision
- Strong integrations with Sage ERP and third-party tools
- Advanced customization with formulas and conditional logic
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Primarily desktop-focused with limited mobile capabilities
Best For
Mid-to-large construction and property development firms needing enterprise-grade accuracy and ERP integration for complex estimating projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $5,000-$15,000+ annually per user depending on modules, seats, and cloud/on-premise deployment.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating and takeoff software that streamlines bid management for construction professionals.
Dynamic assemblies database with over 20,000 pre-configured items for rapid, precise property cost estimation
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for property estimators, contractors, and general contractors to handle digital takeoffs, detailed cost estimating, and bid management. It features a vast database of assemblies, real-time collaboration tools, and seamless integrations with accounting systems like Sage and QuickBooks. The platform automates workflows to produce accurate, professional bids faster, reducing errors in property development and construction projects.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assemblies database for quick and accurate estimating
- Strong integrations with accounting and project management tools
- Cloud-based real-time collaboration for team efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners despite intuitive interface
- Pricing can be high for small firms or solo estimators
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Mid-sized construction and property development firms needing scalable, collaborative estimating tools.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $5,000 annually for base plans, scaling with users and modules.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from blueprints for faster property cost calculations.
Revolutionary point-and-click takeoff engine that delivers sub-millimeter accuracy without manual scaling or digitizing
PlanSwift is a robust digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction and property professionals, allowing users to extract quantities directly from PDF plans, scanned images, and CAD files using a point-and-click interface. It enables quick assembly of estimates with customizable templates, formulas, and drag-and-drop functionality for materials, labor, and costs. The tool integrates seamlessly with Excel, QuickBooks, and other accounting software, making it ideal for generating professional bids and reports in property estimation workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs for precise quantity extraction
- Highly customizable assemblies and formula-driven estimating
- Strong integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and popular accounting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners despite intuitive interface
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- High upfront cost with annual maintenance fees
Best For
Construction estimators and property developers handling complex takeoffs and bids from digital blueprints for renovation or new build projects.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,749 per user, plus ~20% annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Dynamic material pricing database that auto-updates costs from supplier integrations for precise, real-time estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables quick digital takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, or images, automatic material pricing updates, and professional quote generation. The platform also supports job costing, scheduling, and seamless integrations with tools like QuickBooks for streamlined project management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with fast digital takeoff tools
- Real-time material pricing database for accurate estimates
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and Xero
Cons
- Limited advanced features for large-scale commercial projects
- Higher-tier pricing can be steep for solo users
- Occasional glitches in mobile app functionality
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking efficient takeoff and estimating without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Basic (1 user), $299/month for Pro (3 users), up to $499/month for Premier (unlimited users); annual discounts available.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud takeoff and estimating platform for electrical, mechanical, and general construction trades.
AI-driven bid leveling that instantly normalizes and compares subcontractor bids for transparent, accurate estimating.
Stack (stackct.com) is a construction technology platform designed to automate subcontractor bidding, collaboration, and payments for property development and renovation projects. It enables users to send out bid invites, collect and level bids automatically for accurate cost comparisons, and streamline trade partner selection to build reliable project estimates. While it integrates with some estimating workflows, it's primarily a procurement tool rather than a full-featured takeoff and line-item estimating software.
Pros
- Automated bid collection and AI-powered leveling for quick, apples-to-apples comparisons
- Extensive subcontractor network for competitive pricing
- Seamless integration with payments and project management tools
Cons
- Lacks robust native takeoff and detailed line-item estimating capabilities
- Better suited for general contractors than solo estimators or small restoration firms
- Pricing scales with project volume, which may not suit low-volume users
Best For
General contractors and property developers managing mid-sized renovation or construction projects that require efficient subcontractor bidding and procurement.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $500/month for small teams, with per-project fees and volume-based tiers.
CostX
enterpriseAdvanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with BIM model integration for accurate property valuations.
Live-linking takeoff engine that dynamically updates estimates from any changes in 2D/3D measurements or BIM models
CostX by Exactal is a powerful takeoff and estimating software tailored for the construction and property sectors, enabling precise quantity measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It features live-linking between drawings and dynamic estimate sheets, allowing automatic updates to quantities and costs as measurements change. The software includes customizable rate libraries, advanced reporting, and support for international standards, making it ideal for detailed cost planning in property development.
Pros
- Exceptional 2D/3D takeoff accuracy with BIM integration
- Live-linked estimating for real-time updates
- Robust customization and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Limited native mobile or cloud collaboration features
Best For
Experienced quantity surveyors and estimators in large-scale property and construction projects needing BIM-driven precision.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $6,000-$10,000 AUD per user with annual maintenance; subscription options available; volume discounts for enterprises.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based toolkit for digital takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating in construction workflows.
Quantity Takeoff tools with customizable markups and real-time cost calculations directly on PDF drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a specialized PDF editor and markup tool tailored for the AEC industry, enabling precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and quantity estimation from blueprints and plans. It supports area, length, volume calculations, custom cost assignments, and export to Excel for further estimating. Ideal for property estimation workflows involving PDF documents, it streamlines the takeoff phase but relies on external tools for full bid management.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital measurement and takeoff tools for PDFs
- Seamless Excel integration via Quantity Link for dynamic cost estimation
- Robust collaboration features through Bluebeam Studio Sessions
Cons
- No built-in cost databases or preloaded assemblies
- Steeper learning curve for advanced takeoff customizations
- Primarily Windows-centric with limited Mac functionality
Best For
Construction estimators and property professionals focused on PDF-based quantity takeoffs within existing workflows.
Pricing
Subscription from $249/user/year (Basics) to $600/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses start at $1,694 with annual maintenance.
Clear Estimates
otherSimple, affordable estimating software that generates professional proposals for contractors and remodelers.
Pre-built assemblies that enable complete job estimates in under 10 minutes
Clear Estimates is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for residential contractors in remodeling, roofing, painting, siding, and similar trades. It streamlines the creation of professional estimates using pre-loaded assemblies, a regularly updated national cost database, and mobile takeoff capabilities. The platform integrates with QuickBooks for seamless invoicing and supports customizable templates to match specific workflows.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for rapid estimate creation
- Automatic cost database updates to reflect current market prices
- Strong mobile app for on-site takeoffs and approvals
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex assemblies
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to enterprise tools
- Primarily suited for residential work, less robust for commercial projects
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential contractors seeking simple, fast estimating without extensive training.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month per user (billed annually), with Pro plan at $199/month and custom enterprise options.
Methvin
specializedCloud-based estimating platform with customizable templates for construction and property development projects.
Vast integrated resource database with thousands of pre-built assemblies tailored to construction trades
Methvin (methvin.org) is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for construction and property professionals, providing tools for quantity takeoff, cost estimation, and project bidding. It features an extensive built-in database of materials, labor rates, and assemblies, supporting 2D/3D takeoffs and customizable templates for accurate property development estimates. The platform emphasizes collaboration, allowing teams to share estimates in real-time across devices.
Pros
- Extensive cloud-based database of rates and assemblies for quick property estimates
- Real-time collaboration and mobile accessibility
- Supports both simple calculators and advanced takeoff tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Limited integrations with popular accounting or CAD software
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms and estimators focused on Australian property projects needing reliable, database-driven takeoff.
Pricing
Free basic calculator; paid plans start at $49/user/month for Pro features, with Enterprise options available.
Conclusion
The reviewed property estimating software varies to meet diverse needs, with Xactimate leading as the top choice due to its industry-standard precision in damage repair, widely trusted by insurance adjusters and restoration contractors. Sage Estimating impresses with its comprehensive, database-driven approach and integration with accounting systems, while ProEst shines with cloud-based efficiency that streamlines bid management—each offering strong alternatives for specific workflows. Together, these tools highlight the industry’s focus on faster, more accurate property cost calculations, catering to everything from residential remodels to specialized trades.
To unlock professional-grade efficiency, start with Xactimate—the leading solution for flawless property estimating—and elevate your next project with its proven precision.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison