Quick Overview
- 1#1: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction management platform for residential builders and remodelers handling scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logs.
- 2#2: CoConstruct - Custom home building software focused on client selections, project scheduling, budgeting, and seamless communication for remodelers and builders.
- 3#3: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform with tools for project management, financials, quality control, and field collaboration suitable for residential projects.
- 4#4: Houzz Pro - Integrated software for residential contractors offering project management, estimating, invoicing, and marketing through the Houzz design network.
- 5#5: Jobber - Field service management tool for home service contractors providing scheduling, invoicing, CRM, and route optimization.
- 6#6: Leap - All-in-one platform for residential contractors streamlining sales, CRM, project management, and financing options.
- 7#7: Buildxact - Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing and project management features.
- 8#8: Housecall Pro - Field service software for contractors offering dispatching, invoicing, payments, and customer management for residential jobs.
- 9#9: Joist - Mobile invoicing and payment app for contractors with estimating, time tracking, and client communication tools.
- 10#10: Knowify - Construction management software focused on job costing, project tracking, invoicing, and subcontractor management for general contractors.
Tools were chosen based on their integration of essential functions (scheduling, financial tracking, client collaboration), user experience, and value, ensuring they meet the unique demands of residential building and remodeling.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines key residential general contractor software tools, including Buildertrend, CoConstruct, Procore, Houzz Pro, and Jobber, to guide contractors in selecting solutions that fit their workflow. Readers will discover features, usability, and suitability for tasks like project management, client communication, and budgeting, helping them find software tailored to their business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction management platform for residential builders and remodelers handling scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logs. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | CoConstruct Custom home building software focused on client selections, project scheduling, budgeting, and seamless communication for remodelers and builders. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform with tools for project management, financials, quality control, and field collaboration suitable for residential projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 4 | Houzz Pro Integrated software for residential contractors offering project management, estimating, invoicing, and marketing through the Houzz design network. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | Jobber Field service management tool for home service contractors providing scheduling, invoicing, CRM, and route optimization. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Leap All-in-one platform for residential contractors streamlining sales, CRM, project management, and financing options. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Buildxact Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing and project management features. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | Housecall Pro Field service software for contractors offering dispatching, invoicing, payments, and customer management for residential jobs. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | Joist Mobile invoicing and payment app for contractors with estimating, time tracking, and client communication tools. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | Knowify Construction management software focused on job costing, project tracking, invoicing, and subcontractor management for general contractors. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
All-in-one construction management platform for residential builders and remodelers handling scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logs.
Custom home building software focused on client selections, project scheduling, budgeting, and seamless communication for remodelers and builders.
Comprehensive construction management platform with tools for project management, financials, quality control, and field collaboration suitable for residential projects.
Integrated software for residential contractors offering project management, estimating, invoicing, and marketing through the Houzz design network.
Field service management tool for home service contractors providing scheduling, invoicing, CRM, and route optimization.
All-in-one platform for residential contractors streamlining sales, CRM, project management, and financing options.
Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing and project management features.
Field service software for contractors offering dispatching, invoicing, payments, and customer management for residential jobs.
Mobile invoicing and payment app for contractors with estimating, time tracking, and client communication tools.
Construction management software focused on job costing, project tracking, invoicing, and subcontractor management for general contractors.
Buildertrend
specializedAll-in-one construction management platform for residential builders and remodelers handling scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logs.
The integrated Client Portal that allows homeowners to view progress photos, approve selections, and communicate directly, reducing callbacks and enhancing satisfaction.
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management software tailored for residential general contractors, offering tools for project scheduling, budgeting, job costing, and client communication. It provides a centralized platform for managing daily logs, time tracking, subcontractor coordination, and financials, with a robust mobile app for on-site access. The software emphasizes seamless team and client collaboration through portals and messaging features, making it ideal for streamlining residential builds from estimate to closeout.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform covering estimating, scheduling, and financials
- Superior client portal for real-time updates and selections
- Powerful mobile app with offline capabilities for field teams
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing that scales with users and projects
- Limited customization in some reporting features
Best For
Residential general contractors handling multiple custom home projects who need robust client communication and end-to-end project management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $399/month for basic single-user plans, with additional per-user fees ($99-$199/user) and add-ons for advanced features.
CoConstruct
specializedCustom home building software focused on client selections, project scheduling, budgeting, and seamless communication for remodelers and builders.
The homeowner-facing Client Portal with built-in selections and messaging for seamless collaboration
CoConstruct is a robust construction management platform tailored for residential general contractors, home builders, and remodelers, offering end-to-end tools for project scheduling, budgeting, estimating, and client communication. It excels in streamlining workflows with features like mobile apps for field updates, change order management, and a dedicated client portal that enhances transparency and homeowner involvement. The software integrates financial tracking and selections processes to minimize errors and keep projects on track from bid to closeout.
Pros
- Powerful client portal for real-time collaboration and selections
- Comprehensive scheduling and budgeting tools with mobile access
- Strong focus on custom residential workflows like change orders and daily logs
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller operations
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited third-party integrations compared to broader platforms
Best For
Ideal for mid-to-large residential general contractors and custom home builders prioritizing client experience and detailed project management.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $300/month for basic plans, scaling to $500+ for unlimited projects; quotes required.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform with tools for project management, financials, quality control, and field collaboration suitable for residential projects.
Unified Owner app and portal that provides real-time project visibility and communication for homeowners and stakeholders
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that provides residential general contractors with tools for project planning, scheduling, financial tracking, document management, and field collaboration. It enables seamless coordination between office and field teams through its robust mobile app and integrates with accounting software for streamlined invoicing and payments. Designed primarily for scalability across project sizes, it excels in handling complex workflows but may feel extensive for smaller residential jobs.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including RFIs, submittals, daily logs, and budgeting tailored for construction workflows
- Powerful mobile app for real-time field updates and photo documentation
- Strong integrations with tools like QuickBooks, Autodesk, and Microsoft Office
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its enterprise-level complexity, less intuitive for small residential teams
- High pricing that may not justify value for solo or small-scale residential contractors
- Overkill for simple home remodeling projects with basic needs
Best For
Mid-sized residential general contractors managing multiple custom home builds who require scalable, all-in-one project and financial management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500-$1,000/month for core modules, scaling with users, projects, and add-ons.
Houzz Pro
specializedIntegrated software for residential contractors offering project management, estimating, invoicing, and marketing through the Houzz design network.
Integrated lead generation and marketing through the Houzz homeowner marketplace
Houzz Pro is an all-in-one platform tailored for residential professionals, including general contractors, offering tools for lead generation, project management, scheduling, invoicing, and client communication. It integrates seamlessly with the Houzz marketplace, allowing contractors to showcase portfolios, generate 3D floor plans, and manage teams on the go via mobile apps. Designed for the home remodeling industry, it emphasizes visual presentation and marketing to attract homeowners.
Pros
- Powerful lead generation from Houzz's large homeowner audience
- Strong visual tools like 3D plans and photo management for client presentations
- Comprehensive project tracking including schedules, budgets, and invoicing
Cons
- Higher pricing may not suit small operations
- Steeper learning curve for non-design-focused users
- Less emphasis on advanced construction-specific tools like heavy estimating or subcontractor portals
Best For
Residential general contractors who prioritize marketing, design visualization, and client-facing project management over deep construction operations.
Pricing
Starts at $65/month (Essential), $165/month (Pro), $349/month (Elite), with annual discounts and a free trial.
Jobber
specializedField service management tool for home service contractors providing scheduling, invoicing, CRM, and route optimization.
Client Hub for self-service quote approvals, job updates, and online payments
Jobber is an all-in-one field service management software designed for service-based businesses like residential general contractors, offering tools for scheduling, quoting, invoicing, and client management. It streamlines operations from lead capture to payment collection via a user-friendly web and mobile platform. While strong in day-to-day job management, it focuses more on service calls and smaller projects rather than large-scale construction oversight.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and dispatching
- Robust mobile app for on-site job management
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for accounting
Cons
- Limited advanced project tracking like Gantt charts or cost breakdowns
- Pricing increases significantly for teams over 7 users
- Reporting lacks depth for complex financial analysis
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential general contractors handling repairs, maintenance, and light renovations rather than large builds.
Pricing
Lite ($49/mo annual), Core ($129/mo), Connect ($229/mo), Grow ($349+/mo); annual billing required for lowest rates, unlimited users on higher plans.
Leap
specializedAll-in-one platform for residential contractors streamlining sales, CRM, project management, and financing options.
Real-time instant financing decisions integrated directly into the sales process
Leap is an all-in-one platform tailored for residential general contractors, focusing on accelerating sales through instant financing approvals, digital proposals, and contracts. It also provides tools for scheduling, production management, subcontractor coordination, and performance analytics to streamline operations from lead generation to project closeout. Designed primarily for home improvement pros like remodelers and roofers, it emphasizes quick deal closures and real-time business insights.
Pros
- Instant financing approvals boost close rates by up to 30%
- Intuitive mobile app for on-site contract signing and updates
- Comprehensive sales pipeline and performance dashboards
Cons
- Limited depth in advanced estimating and takeoff tools
- Pricing scales quickly for multi-user teams
- Fewer integrations with specialized construction accounting software
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential contractors specializing in remodels, roofing, or siding who need fast sales enablement and financing.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month for Essentials plan (1 user), up to $499+/month for Pro/Enterprise with more users and features; custom quotes available.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing and project management features.
Real-time live pricing from integrated suppliers that automatically updates estimates for accuracy
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers, offering fast digital takeoffs, accurate estimating, professional quoting, and job costing. It integrates with major suppliers for real-time material pricing and supports QuickBooks for seamless accounting. Ideal for streamlining pre-construction workflows, it helps contractors win more bids with precise, professional proposals.
Pros
- Lightning-fast takeoffs and estimating with customizable templates
- Live material pricing integrations with suppliers like Home Depot and 84 Lumber
- Strong QuickBooks integration for effortless job costing and invoicing
Cons
- Limited advanced project management and scheduling compared to full suites
- Reporting and customization options could be more robust
- Customer support response times vary, with some users reporting delays
Best For
Small to medium residential general contractors who prioritize quick estimating and takeoff over comprehensive field management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Solo plan) billed annually, with Teams ($299/user/month) and Enterprise options; 14-day free trial available.
Housecall Pro
specializedField service software for contractors offering dispatching, invoicing, payments, and customer management for residential jobs.
Smart scheduling optimizer that automatically assigns jobs, routes technicians, and fills gaps for maximum efficiency
Housecall Pro is a cloud-based field service management software tailored for home service businesses, providing tools for scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and payments. For residential general contractors, it excels in managing day-to-day operations like job booking, technician routing, and customer communications via a mobile app. While it integrates well with QuickBooks and offers real-time updates, it falls short on advanced construction-specific features like detailed job costing or subcontractor portals.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and GPS dispatching
- Seamless mobile app for on-site invoicing and payments
- Strong QuickBooks integration for effortless accounting
Cons
- Limited project management tools for complex remodels or builds
- Basic reporting lacks depth in cost tracking and profitability analysis
- Pricing increases significantly with multiple users or advanced add-ons
Best For
Small residential general contractors focused on service calls, repairs, and minor renovations rather than large-scale construction projects.
Pricing
Starts at $65/month for Basic (1 user), $129/month for Essentials, $229/month for Max (billed annually; additional users extra)
Joist
specializedMobile invoicing and payment app for contractors with estimating, time tracking, and client communication tools.
Instant mobile estimates with photos, signatures, and one-tap sharing via text or email
Joist is a mobile-first app tailored for contractors, enabling quick creation of professional estimates, invoices, and payment collection directly from job sites. It supports time tracking, expense logging, and basic job organization, making it suitable for residential general contractors handling smaller projects. While not a full project management suite, it excels in simplifying billing and client communication on the go.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile interface for instant quoting and invoicing
- Integrated payment processing with QuickBooks sync
- Affordable plans with a free tier for basics
Cons
- Limited advanced scheduling and project tracking
- Basic CRM and reporting features
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small residential general contractors or solo operators who prioritize fast on-site estimating, billing, and payments over comprehensive project management.
Pricing
Free plan for unlimited estimates/invoices; Solo Pro $29/month, Crew Pro $79/month.
Knowify
specializedConstruction management software focused on job costing, project tracking, invoicing, and subcontractor management for general contractors.
Pre-built estimating assemblies library with visual takeoffs for faster, trade-specific bid creation
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for trade contractors and general contractors, offering robust tools for estimating, job costing, invoicing, and time tracking. It excels in financial management with seamless QuickBooks integration and a mobile app for field updates, making it suitable for residential projects. However, it has lighter scheduling features compared to dedicated GC platforms, positioning it as a solid mid-tier option for cost-focused workflows.
Pros
- Powerful estimating and digital takeoff tools with photo integration
- Seamless real-time QuickBooks Online sync for accurate financials
- Mobile app enables efficient field time tracking and job updates
Cons
- Limited advanced scheduling and Gantt chart capabilities
- Learning curve for complex estimating assemblies
- Pricing scales quickly for teams needing multi-user access
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential general contractors prioritizing job costing, estimating, and invoicing efficiency over comprehensive project scheduling.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Essentials), up to $199/user/month (Advanced), billed annually with custom enterprise options.
Conclusion
The top residential contractor software tools offer solutions for varied needs, with Buildertrend leading as the #1 pick—an all-in-one platform excelling in scheduling, budgeting, and client communication. CoConstruct follows closely, thriving with its focus on client selections and seamless collaboration, while Procore rounds out the top three, offering comprehensive management with strong project and quality control tools. Each tool shines in its strength, but these three set the standard for efficiency and versatility.
Don't miss out—try Buildertrend first to experience its integrated features, from scheduling to invoicing, and see how it can streamline your projects and boost your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison