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Compared two different job estimating apps side by side last week and the winner wasn't even close | Construction Tech - Vivisector

logan_wood•3mo ago

Compared two different job estimating apps side by side last week and the winner wasn't even close

I been using one app for over a year on my flooring jobs. Sent estimates through it, tracked payments, the whole deal. Then a buddy in Tulsa told me to try this other one. First app takes like 5 minutes per room to punch in measurements and materials. Second one? 90 seconds flat once you set up your price templates. First one also charged me per estimate sent after 10 free ones. Second one is just a flat $20 a month. I'm switching this week. Anyone else find a simple estimator that just works without all the extra bells and whistles?

3 comments

3 Comments

charles_coleman3mo ago

That part about the first app charging per estimate after 10 free ones really gets me. I ran into the same thing with a different estimator last year and it felt like a trap. You get comfortable with the interface and then suddenly you're watching every estimate like it costs you money to send them out. Flat fee is the way to go, no question. The per-estimate model makes you second guess whether to quote someone who might just be shopping around.

shanec613mo ago

You know what's funny? I used to think the per-estimate model was fair because you only pay when you actually use it. But honestly, you just made me realize how much that backfires in practice. Once you hit that 10th free estimate, you start hesitating on every single quote, even the ones that seem solid. It totally changes how you run your business, like you're nickel-and-diming yourself against potential customers. I'm glad I saw this before I went all in on one of those apps, flat fee really does take the pressure off.

kai_burns733mo ago

Man I totally feel you on this! It's funny how that same "free then pay" trick shows up everywhere, not just in estimator apps. I noticed it with those meal kit delivery services too, they hook you with discounts then suddenly you're paying full price and feeling stuck. @shanec61 you said it perfect, it really messes with how you think about using something when you know the meter's running.