Quick Overview
- 1#1: Buildxact - Cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders and remodelers to create accurate bids quickly.
- 2#2: Leap - All-in-one platform for home improvement contractors providing instant estimating, sales, and project management tools.
- 3#3: JobTread - Comprehensive construction management software with customizable estimating for residential remodelers and builders.
- 4#4: Buildertrend - Industry-leading project management platform featuring robust estimating and takeoff capabilities for remodelers.
- 5#5: Stack - AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that speeds up quantity takeoffs for remodeling projects.
- 6#6: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from plans for construction and remodeling estimators.
- 7#7: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating software with real-time pricing databases and integrations for professional remodel estimators.
- 8#8: Houzz Pro - Business software for home professionals offering quoting, estimating, and project tracking for remodelers.
- 9#9: Knowify - Construction management platform with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features suited for small remodel contractors.
- 10#10: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based digital takeoff and estimating tool widely used by construction professionals for remodeling quantity calculations.
Tools were selected and ranked based on feature sophistication, usability, reliability, and value, ensuring they meet the needs of both residential remodelers and small contracting teams.
Comparison Table
Discover a clear comparison of popular remodeling estimator software, featuring tools like Buildxact, Leap, JobTread, Buildertrend, Stack, and more. This table examines key features, pricing structures, and user-friendliness to help readers identify the best fit for their project requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buildxact Cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders and remodelers to create accurate bids quickly. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Leap All-in-one platform for home improvement contractors providing instant estimating, sales, and project management tools. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | JobTread Comprehensive construction management software with customizable estimating for residential remodelers and builders. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Buildertrend Industry-leading project management platform featuring robust estimating and takeoff capabilities for remodelers. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Stack AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that speeds up quantity takeoffs for remodeling projects. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from plans for construction and remodeling estimators. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating software with real-time pricing databases and integrations for professional remodel estimators. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Houzz Pro Business software for home professionals offering quoting, estimating, and project tracking for remodelers. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Knowify Construction management platform with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features suited for small remodel contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based digital takeoff and estimating tool widely used by construction professionals for remodeling quantity calculations. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
Cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders and remodelers to create accurate bids quickly.
All-in-one platform for home improvement contractors providing instant estimating, sales, and project management tools.
Comprehensive construction management software with customizable estimating for residential remodelers and builders.
Industry-leading project management platform featuring robust estimating and takeoff capabilities for remodelers.
AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that speeds up quantity takeoffs for remodeling projects.
Digital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from plans for construction and remodeling estimators.
Cloud-based estimating software with real-time pricing databases and integrations for professional remodel estimators.
Business software for home professionals offering quoting, estimating, and project tracking for remodelers.
Construction management platform with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features suited for small remodel contractors.
PDF-based digital takeoff and estimating tool widely used by construction professionals for remodeling quantity calculations.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders and remodelers to create accurate bids quickly.
Vast, customizable template library tailored for remodeling projects, enabling estimates in minutes rather than hours
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and job management software designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers. It enables fast digital takeoffs, accurate cost estimates using a vast library of customizable templates, and professional quote generation with one-click PDF exports. The platform also provides real-time job costing, scheduling, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero, making it a comprehensive solution for remodeling projects from estimate to completion.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 25,000 pre-built, remodeling-specific templates and assemblies for rapid estimating
- Real-time job costing and profitability tracking with visual dashboards
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and material suppliers for automated pricing
Cons
- Higher-tier pricing can be costly for solo contractors or very small teams
- Slight learning curve for advanced takeoff and customization features
- Reporting capabilities lack some depth compared to enterprise-level tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors and residential builders needing efficient, end-to-end estimating and job management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Basic), $299/month (Pro), $499/month (Premium); annual plans offer discounts, with a 14-day free trial.
Leap
specializedAll-in-one platform for home improvement contractors providing instant estimating, sales, and project management tools.
One-click in-app financing that lets contractors present and approve loans during the estimate demo
Leap (leap.io) is an all-in-one sales and operations platform tailored for home remodeling contractors, with robust estimating tools that allow for quick, on-site quote generation using iPads or web interfaces. It integrates product catalogs, takeoffs, and customizable templates to produce professional remodeling estimates, while streamlining the path from lead capture to signed contracts. The software excels in accelerating sales cycles by embedding financing, payments, and project management directly into the estimating workflow.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimate creation with mobile iPad app for on-site use
- Seamless integration with financing partners for instant approvals
- Comprehensive sales tools that go beyond estimating to close deals faster
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter solo contractors or very small teams
- Steeper learning curve for customizing advanced templates
- Less focus on complex 3D modeling or detailed CAD integrations compared to pure takeoff software
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors who want an end-to-end sales platform to convert estimates into signed contracts efficiently.
Pricing
Starts at $149 per user per month for core plans, with custom enterprise pricing available.
JobTread
specializedComprehensive construction management software with customizable estimating for residential remodelers and builders.
Visual drag-and-drop scheduling board that links directly to estimates for real-time job production tracking
JobTread is an all-in-one construction management platform tailored for remodeling contractors, offering robust estimating tools with customizable assemblies, material takeoffs, and labor calculators to generate accurate bids quickly. It integrates estimating seamlessly with job scheduling, costing, invoicing, and client portals for end-to-end project management. The software emphasizes field productivity through mobile apps and real-time updates, making it ideal for home improvement businesses.
Pros
- Powerful estimating with pre-built assemblies and cost databases for remodeling projects
- Unlimited users on higher plans, great for teams
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and mobile app for field access
Cons
- Initial setup and learning curve for custom templates
- Reporting features lack advanced customization
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit solo estimators
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors needing integrated estimating, scheduling, and job tracking without multiple tools.
Pricing
Starts at $165/month for the Base plan (unlimited users), Pro at $265/month, Enterprise custom; 14-day free trial.
Buildertrend
enterpriseIndustry-leading project management platform featuring robust estimating and takeoff capabilities for remodelers.
Real-time job costing that automatically pulls from estimates to track variances and profitability
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform designed for remodelers and builders, featuring robust estimating tools for creating detailed bids and cost breakdowns. It supports digital takeoffs, customizable templates, and real-time cost tracking integrated with project scheduling, invoicing, and client portals. While not a standalone estimator, it excels in tying estimates to full project workflows for remodeling jobs.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with scheduling and job costing
- Mobile app for on-site estimate adjustments and approvals
- Extensive template library and QuickBooks integration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Pricing can be high for solo remodelers or small teams
- Takeoff tools less precise than dedicated software like PlanSwift
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors needing integrated estimating within comprehensive project management.
Pricing
Starts at $399/month for On-Site plan (1 user, core features); scales to $799+/month for teams with advanced tools; custom enterprise pricing.
Stack
specializedAI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that speeds up quantity takeoffs for remodeling projects.
Live, auto-updating cost database that pulls real-time material and labor pricing for precise remodeling estimates.
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for remodeling contractors, enabling digital plan takeoffs, accurate cost calculations, and bid generation in a streamlined workflow. It features customizable templates for common remodeling projects like kitchens and bathrooms, real-time collaboration, and integrations with tools like QuickBooks. The platform emphasizes speed and accuracy, helping estimators produce professional bids faster than traditional methods.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with area and linear measurement tools
- Extensive library of remodeling-specific templates and assemblies
- Mobile app for on-site estimating and real-time team collaboration
Cons
- Limited customization in advanced reporting and exports
- Subscription pricing may feel steep for very small solo operators
- Occasional learning curve for complex multi-trade assemblies
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors who need quick, accurate estimates for residential projects without heavy manual data entry.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Basic (billed annually), up to $299/user/month for Enterprise with advanced integrations and unlimited projects.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating tool that automates measurements from plans for construction and remodeling estimators.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that let users build complex estimates instantly by pointing to plan elements
PlanSwift is a desktop-based on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, including remodeling estimators, allowing users to digitally measure quantities from PDF plans, blueprints, or scanned drawings using intuitive point-and-click tools. It excels in assembling accurate bids by applying customizable cost databases and assemblies directly on the plan view, with real-time cost calculations and reporting. The software integrates with tools like QuickBooks and Excel for seamless workflow in remodeling projects ranging from kitchens to full-home renovations.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with point-and-click measuring tools
- Highly customizable assemblies and cost databases for precise remodeling estimates
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Excel, and other construction software
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Windows-only desktop application with no cloud or mobile access
- High upfront licensing cost without subscription flexibility
Best For
Remodeling contractors and estimators who handle frequent digital plan takeoffs and need robust on-screen quantity calculation for mid-to-large projects.
Pricing
One-time perpetual license starting at $1,749 per user, plus optional annual maintenance (~20% of license cost) for updates and support.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating software with real-time pricing databases and integrations for professional remodel estimators.
Intelligent digital takeoff tools that automatically populate estimates from plan measurements
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed to streamline the bidding process for remodeling projects through digital takeoff, customizable cost databases, and detailed assemblies. It enables estimators to generate accurate bids with breakdowns for labor, materials, subcontractors, and overhead, while supporting real-time collaboration and integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Sage. Primarily geared toward commercial construction, it adapts well to remodeling but may feel robust for smaller residential jobs.
Pros
- Extensive customizable databases and assemblies for precise cost estimation
- Cloud-based access for remote collaboration and real-time updates
- Seamless integrations with accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its comprehensive feature set
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small remodeling firms
- More optimized for commercial projects than simple residential remodels
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors handling complex renovation projects that require detailed, scalable estimating capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting around $250 per user per month or $5,000+ annually depending on features and users.
Houzz Pro
specializedBusiness software for home professionals offering quoting, estimating, and project tracking for remodelers.
Direct integration with the Houzz marketplace for turning estimates into leads from a massive homeowner audience
Houzz Pro is an all-in-one business management platform for home professionals, including remodeling contractors, with built-in estimating tools like customizable templates, cost databases, and quantity takeoffs. It integrates estimation with project scheduling, invoicing, CRM, and marketing features via the Houzz marketplace. While versatile for full project lifecycles, its estimating capabilities are solid for standard remodels but lack the depth of dedicated software for complex bids.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with mobile app for on-site estimating
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and Houzz lead generation
- Pre-built templates and cost libraries speed up common remodel estimates
Cons
- Limited advanced takeoff tools compared to specialized estimators
- Estimation features require higher-tier plans for full functionality
- Steep learning curve for non-Houzz users due to ecosystem integration
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors seeking an all-in-one tool that combines estimation with project management and client acquisition.
Pricing
Starts at $65/month (Essentials) up to $349/month (Pro+), with a free trial; estimating tools available from mid-tier plans.
Knowify
specializedConstruction management platform with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features suited for small remodel contractors.
Smart Assemblies library with thousands of pre-configured remodeling items for rapid, database-driven estimating
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for remodeling contractors and specialty trades, offering robust estimating tools with customizable templates, assemblies, and digital takeoffs. It streamlines the entire project lifecycle from bid creation and job costing to invoicing and payments. The platform integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and provides mobile access for on-site management, making it suitable for small to mid-sized remodeling businesses.
Pros
- Powerful estimating with pre-built assemblies and cost databases for fast, accurate remodeling bids
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time financial tracking
- Mobile app enables on-site job costing and approvals
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Limited native 2D/3D takeoff capabilities compared to specialized tools
- Pricing can add up for teams needing multiple users
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors seeking an all-in-one solution for estimating, job costing, and project management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for Essentials plan; higher tiers up to $399/user/month for Pro with advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based digital takeoff and estimating tool widely used by construction professionals for remodeling quantity calculations.
Quantity Link for exporting live-linked measurements and summaries to Excel, enabling dynamic cost updates without manual re-entry
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editor and markup software designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries, enabling users to perform precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and annotations on blueprints and plans. For remodeling estimators, it offers tools for quantity extraction, custom assemblies, and cost assignments directly on PDFs, facilitating material and labor estimates from digital drawings. While powerful for plan review and basic estimation, it lacks advanced bid management, scheduling, or full ERP integration found in dedicated estimating software.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement and takeoff tools with customizable scales and units
- Seamless collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for real-time markups and cloud sharing
- Scripting and dynamic tool sets for automating repetitive estimation tasks
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features like custom assemblies
- Subscription pricing can be high for users not needing full AEC toolkit
- Limited native estimating beyond takeoffs; requires Excel export for complex bids
Best For
Remodeling estimators focused on PDF-based quantity takeoffs and plan annotations who already use spreadsheets for detailed costing.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at $240/user/year (Essentials), $360 (Core), up to $480 (Complete); perpetual licenses also available from $349.
Conclusion
The top remodeling estimator software tools offer distinct strengths, with Buildxact leading as the top choice for quick, accurate bid creation tailored to residential builders and remodelers. Leap and JobTread follow closely, providing robust all-in-one and customizable solutions that suit different operational needs, ensuring no contractor is left without a standout option. These tools collectively streamline workflows, boosting efficiency and accuracy, cementing their role as essential assets in modern remodeling.
Don’t miss out—start with Buildxact to unlock its cloud-based takeoff capabilities and experience faster, more precise estimating for your projects today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
