Replies

1. 
   Ed_Stefanich | Jan 24, 2000 09:43am | #1

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   Kern,

   I use the "National Construction Estimator." For 35 bucks, you get a book and CD which contains the estimating software.... I've only been in business for myself for a short time and this book/software has helped me immensely.

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   Guest_ | Jan 29, 2000 10:13am | #2

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   Kern, Estimating software can be a good guide but every one is different in their abilitys, tools for the job , etc. My advice is your knowledge on how fast you work , how many guys you have, their pay and your overhead etc. etc. can't be found in a book or software ! Now we always want to do a great job at a fair price to the client but if you are a tool fanatic to do the job right like myself you can probally do the job faster and more efficient than a weekend warrior who's estwing hammer also doubles as his chop saw, if I can exxagerate for a second ! Point being that many factors go into it! If joe smo installs a door in 7 hrs and you can do it in 2 should you charge less money? No because you've invested in the tools to do the job right and efficiently! My plan is to take a stock list, pad for unforseeables, figure from experience how long it should take you, figure out what you need to make to keep you in profit and keep you running, while being fair to your client! A great job for a fair price will always win repeat business, a poor job at a cheap price will win you nothing

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   Guest_ | Jan 29, 2000 05:37pm | #3

   *In addition to the book and software-EXPERIENCE.Had a nice story, got logged off, that's the Cliff notes.Best of luck.

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   Raymond_Smalley | Feb 03, 2000 08:02am | #4

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   Kern,
   I have to agree with Steve,in that you have to base your estimates on each individual job or client.No software accounts for the client who stands there and talks to you the entire time your working. You also have to remember that material prices can vary for day to day so what you think you can do a job for today might be a loser next month.

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   Kern | Feb 03, 2000 08:02am | #5

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   I am looking for information on a good estimating program for residential remodeling and construction software. Any ideas?