Quick Overview
- 1#1: Buildxact - Cloud-based estimating software designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers with pre-loaded material pricing and job costing.
- 2#2: Stack - AI-powered construction estimating platform that provides real-time pricing and automated takeoffs for residential projects.
- 3#3: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity calculations from PDFs and plans for residential construction.
- 4#4: Buildertrend - Comprehensive construction management software with integrated estimating, budgeting, and scheduling for residential contractors.
- 5#5: CoConstruct - Custom builder platform offering detailed estimating, selections management, and client portals for residential projects.
- 6#6: Clear Estimates - User-friendly estimating software with pre-built assemblies and templates tailored for residential remodeling and construction.
- 7#7: Leap - Residential remodeling platform that streamlines estimating, CRM, financing, and project management in one tool.
- 8#8: JobTread - Construction management software featuring takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and job costing for residential builders.
- 9#9: Houzz Pro - All-in-one business tool for home pros with estimating, invoicing, and project tracking for residential services.
- 10#10: Procore - Enterprise construction platform with robust estimating tools, bid management, and integration for residential projects.
Tools were evaluated based on specialized residential features, user experience, accuracy, and overall value, prioritizing reliability and adaptability for diverse construction and remodeling workflows
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading residential construction estimating software, featuring Buildxact, Stack, PlanSwift, Buildertrend, CoConstruct, and more, to guide users in finding tools that fit their project scale, workflow, and budget needs. Readers will gain insights into key features, pricing structures, and usability to streamline their estimation processes effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buildxact Cloud-based estimating software designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers with pre-loaded material pricing and job costing. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Stack AI-powered construction estimating platform that provides real-time pricing and automated takeoffs for residential projects. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity calculations from PDFs and plans for residential construction. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Buildertrend Comprehensive construction management software with integrated estimating, budgeting, and scheduling for residential contractors. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 5 | CoConstruct Custom builder platform offering detailed estimating, selections management, and client portals for residential projects. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Clear Estimates User-friendly estimating software with pre-built assemblies and templates tailored for residential remodeling and construction. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Leap Residential remodeling platform that streamlines estimating, CRM, financing, and project management in one tool. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | JobTread Construction management software featuring takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and job costing for residential builders. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Houzz Pro All-in-one business tool for home pros with estimating, invoicing, and project tracking for residential services. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 10 | Procore Enterprise construction platform with robust estimating tools, bid management, and integration for residential projects. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
Cloud-based estimating software designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers with pre-loaded material pricing and job costing.
AI-powered construction estimating platform that provides real-time pricing and automated takeoffs for residential projects.
Digital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity calculations from PDFs and plans for residential construction.
Comprehensive construction management software with integrated estimating, budgeting, and scheduling for residential contractors.
Custom builder platform offering detailed estimating, selections management, and client portals for residential projects.
User-friendly estimating software with pre-built assemblies and templates tailored for residential remodeling and construction.
Residential remodeling platform that streamlines estimating, CRM, financing, and project management in one tool.
Construction management software featuring takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and job costing for residential builders.
All-in-one business tool for home pros with estimating, invoicing, and project tracking for residential services.
Enterprise construction platform with robust estimating tools, bid management, and integration for residential projects.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based estimating software designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers with pre-loaded material pricing and job costing.
Quick Sheets for generating complete, professional estimates in under 5 minutes using customizable templates and live supplier pricing.
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade professionals. It enables quick digital takeoffs, professional quote generation, real-time job costing, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero. The platform supports end-to-end project management from estimate to invoice, with mobile access for on-site efficiency.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimate creation with pre-built templates and matrix pricing
- Accurate 2D takeoffs and automatic cost calculations
- Robust integrations and mobile app for real-time collaboration
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small operations
- Limited advanced 3D visualization compared to CAD tools
- Occasional sync delays with large projects
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential builders and remodelers seeking an intuitive all-in-one platform for estimating and job tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for Essentials; Pro at $299/user/month and Premium at $449/user/month with advanced features.
Stack
specializedAI-powered construction estimating platform that provides real-time pricing and automated takeoffs for residential projects.
Patented AI engine that auto-detects and measures 1,000+ residential components from uploaded plans with 98%+ accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating software designed specifically for residential construction professionals, enabling rapid analysis of PDF plans to automatically detect and quantify materials like framing, roofing, and drywall. It generates detailed cost estimates, assemblies, and bid packages while integrating with tools like QuickBooks and Procore. The platform emphasizes speed and accuracy, reducing manual takeoff time from hours to minutes for home builders and remodelers.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that handle complex residential plans in minutes
- High accuracy with customizable assemblies and real-time cost updates
- Strong integrations and cloud collaboration for team efficiency
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small operations
- Occasional need for manual AI corrections on unique plan details
- Primarily focused on 2D plans, with 3D support still developing
Best For
Mid-sized residential builders and remodelers seeking AI automation to accelerate estimating and win more bids.
Pricing
Starts at $250/month for Pro plan (unlimited projects, 10 users); pay-per-project options available; free trial offered.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity calculations from PDFs and plans for residential construction.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that provide real-time quantity takeoffs, cost calculations, and bid updates directly on digital plans
PlanSwift is a visual takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling users to import digital plans like PDFs and CAD files for rapid quantity takeoffs. It excels in residential construction by allowing drag-and-drop application of customizable assemblies for framing, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and more, automatically calculating material quantities, labor, and costs. The software generates professional bids and integrates seamlessly with Excel and accounting tools, streamlining the estimating process from plan to proposal.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff interface for quick measurements
- Extensive library of pre-built and customizable assemblies specific to residential trades
- Strong integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility, no native Mac or mobile support
- Steep learning curve for setting up complex custom assemblies
- Subscription model may feel expensive for small or infrequent users
Best For
Residential general contractors and subcontractors who perform frequent digital plan takeoffs and need accurate, visual estimating for bidding on homes and remodels.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at $1,749 for a single-user license; multi-user and enterprise plans with volume discounts available.
Buildertrend
enterpriseComprehensive construction management software with integrated estimating, budgeting, and scheduling for residential contractors.
Real-time synchronization of estimates with job costs, change orders, and schedules for accurate forecasting and profitability tracking
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform with integrated estimating tools designed primarily for residential builders and remodelers. It enables digital takeoffs, customizable assemblies, cost databases, and estimate generation that seamlessly links to scheduling, budgeting, and job costing. Beyond estimating, it offers client portals, messaging, time tracking, and invoicing, providing an all-in-one solution for managing residential projects from bid to closeout.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with scheduling, budgeting, and job costing for end-to-end project control
- User-friendly digital takeoff tools and pre-built assemblies tailored for residential work
- Strong mobile app and client communication features that enhance collaboration
Cons
- Higher pricing makes it less ideal for solo estimators or very small operations
- Steeper learning curve due to the breadth of features beyond just estimating
- Estimating capabilities are solid but not as advanced or flexible as dedicated takeoff specialists
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential builders and remodelers seeking an all-in-one platform that combines estimating with full project management.
Pricing
Starts at $299/month for the Entry plan (3 projects, unlimited users), scaling to $399+ for Pro/Plus tiers with more projects/users; custom enterprise pricing and setup fees apply.
CoConstruct
specializedCustom builder platform offering detailed estimating, selections management, and client portals for residential projects.
Integrated customer selections process that ties directly to estimates and budgets for real-time change tracking
CoConstruct is an all-in-one construction management platform designed for residential builders and remodelers, with powerful estimating tools that enable precise takeoffs, cost assemblies, and bid creation using a built-in database. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, client selections, and project tracking to manage the full project lifecycle from bid to closeout. The software emphasizes collaboration through client portals and mobile access, making it ideal for custom home projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive estimating with customizable assemblies and real-time cost updates
- Strong integration of estimates with client selections and project management
- Robust mobile app and client portal for on-site and customer collaboration
Cons
- Higher pricing may not suit small operations
- Learning curve for advanced estimating and customization features
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to specialized estimating tools
Best For
Mid-sized residential custom builders and remodelers needing integrated estimating and client management.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $500/month, based on projects and users; no free trial but demos available.
Clear Estimates
specializedUser-friendly estimating software with pre-built assemblies and templates tailored for residential remodeling and construction.
Pre-loaded library of 20,000+ residential assemblies for drag-and-drop estimating
Clear Estimates is a cloud-based estimating software designed specifically for residential construction and remodeling contractors. It provides a comprehensive library of over 20,000 pre-built assemblies for kitchens, bathrooms, additions, and more, enabling users to create detailed, professional estimates quickly. The tool supports QuickBooks integration, mobile access, and customizable templates to streamline workflows from takeoff to invoicing.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assembly library speeds up estimate creation
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for accounting
- Mobile app allows on-site estimate adjustments
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Customization options can feel restrictive for highly unique projects
- Pricing may be steep for very small solo operators
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential remodeling contractors who need fast, accurate estimates without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $125/user/month (billed annually) with tiered plans up to $225/user/month.
Leap
specializedResidential remodeling platform that streamlines estimating, CRM, financing, and project management in one tool.
Instant AI-powered estimates generated from a single photo or measurement input
Leap (leap.io) is an all-in-one platform tailored for residential contractors, specializing in rapid digital estimating, sales proposals, financing integrations, and production management. It enables users to generate accurate bids in seconds from photos or measurements, streamlining the process from lead to close. Primarily designed for trades like roofing, siding, windows, and remodeling, it emphasizes speed and conversion rates over complex takeoffs.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimate creation from photos or basic inputs, often under 60 seconds
- Seamless integration of financing options to boost deal closures
- Mobile-first design with strong sales and production tracking tools
Cons
- Less suited for detailed, multi-phase custom home builds requiring advanced takeoffs
- Pricing can be steep for smaller teams without high sales volume
- Limited customization for non-standard residential projects
Best For
Residential contractors in high-volume trades like roofing and exteriors who prioritize quick bids and integrated sales tools over in-depth quantity surveying.
Pricing
Custom plans starting at ~$199/user/month for Essentials, scaling to Enterprise; volume discounts available, free trial offered.
JobTread
specializedConstruction management software featuring takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and job costing for residential builders.
Drag-and-drop estimating assemblies with automatic cost calculations tailored for residential trades like roofing and remodeling
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management platform designed primarily for residential contractors, including remodelers, roofers, and home builders. It excels in creating detailed estimates using pre-built assemblies, material price lists, and customizable templates to generate professional bids quickly. The software also integrates estimating with scheduling, job costing, time tracking, invoicing, and CRM tools for full project lifecycle management.
Pros
- All-in-one platform combining estimating, scheduling, and invoicing
- Mobile app for on-site access and time tracking
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for financial management
Cons
- Basic digital takeoff tools lacking advanced measurement capabilities
- Pricing may feel steep for solo contractors without heavy usage
- Limited customization for complex multi-phase residential projects
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential contractors and remodelers seeking an integrated tool for estimating and basic project management without needing enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month for Basic plan, $99/user/month for Pro (billed annually with discounts); Enterprise custom pricing.
Houzz Pro
otherAll-in-one business tool for home pros with estimating, invoicing, and project tracking for residential services.
Visual estimate builder that links directly to Houzz design ideabooks and 3D renders for client-presentable bids
Houzz Pro is an all-in-one business management platform tailored for residential design and construction professionals, featuring integrated estimating tools for creating detailed bids, takeoffs, and cost breakdowns. It offers customizable estimate templates, a material and labor cost database, and seamless integration with QuickBooks for accurate financial tracking. While not a standalone estimating powerhouse, it excels in combining estimating with project management, scheduling, and client communication in a visually oriented interface.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop estimating with visual project integration
- Strong QuickBooks and payment processing sync for streamlined workflows
- Access to Houzz's cost database and supplier network for residential projects
Cons
- Lacks advanced automated takeoff tools compared to dedicated estimating software
- Full estimating features require higher-tier subscriptions
- Customization can feel limited for highly complex or large-scale residential jobs
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential contractors seeking an all-in-one platform where estimating integrates with design, scheduling, and client management.
Pricing
Starts at $85/month (Core plan) with Pro at $165/month and Premium at $349/month; free trial available.
Procore
enterpriseEnterprise construction platform with robust estimating tools, bid management, and integration for residential projects.
Advanced Bid Board for collaborative bidding and real-time subcontractor management
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that includes estimating tools for takeoffs, budgeting, and bidding, suitable for residential projects among others. It streamlines cost estimation through digital plan viewing, quantity takeoffs, and integration with accounting software. While powerful for larger operations, it may feel expansive for small-scale residential estimators focused solely on quick bids.
Pros
- Robust estimating suite with digital takeoff and bid management tools
- Seamless integration with project management and financial tracking
- Strong mobile app for on-site estimating adjustments
Cons
- High cost makes it less ideal for small residential firms
- Steep learning curve for estimating-specific features
- Overkill for simple residential estimating without full project needs
Best For
Mid-to-large residential construction firms needing integrated estimating with full project management capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $500–$1,000+ per month based on users/projects; no public tiers.
Conclusion
After evaluating the tools, Buildxact leads as the top choice, offering cloud-based design tailored for residential builders and remodelers, with pre-loaded material pricing and job costing that streamlines workflow. Stack, with its AI-driven real-time pricing and automated takeoffs, and PlanSwift, excelling in fast quantity calculations from plans, stand out as strong alternatives, each addressing distinct needs. Together, they represent the best in residential estimating software.
Don't miss the chance to try Buildxact—its specialized features can transform how you estimate and manage residential projects, setting your work up for efficiency and success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison