Best Estimate Software for Small Contractors
Professional Estimates That Actually Win Jobs
Small contractors need estimate software that's professional, affordable, and easy to use. Here's what actually works - and what doesn't - for winning more jobs with better estimates.
Why Professional Estimates Win More Jobs
Your estimate is often the first impression a potential customer gets of your business. A professional, detailed estimate shows that you take your work seriously and can be trusted with their project.
Small contractors using generic tools or handwritten estimates are losing jobs to competitors who look more professional. The right estimate software levels the playing field and helps you compete with larger companies.
But here's the catch: most estimate software is either too basic (generic templates that don't fit your trade) or too complex (enterprise solutions designed for huge contractors). Small contractors need something in between.
What Small Contractors Need in Estimate Software
Professional Templates That Win Jobs
Industry-specific templates make your estimates look professional and help you stand out from competitors using generic tools.
- •Trade-specific layouts and terminology
- •Professional formatting and branding
- •Customizable line items and descriptions
- •Photo integration for visual context
Mobile-First Design for Job Sites
Create and send estimates while you're at the customer's location. Mobile-friendly tools help you close deals on the spot.
- •Works perfectly on phones and tablets
- •Send estimates immediately via email or text
- •Professional presentation on any device
Easy Customization Without Complexity
Customize your estimates without needing a computer science degree. Simple tools that give you professional results.
- •Drag-and-drop line item organization
- •Add your logo and branding easily
- •Custom terms and conditions
- •Flexible pricing and markup options
Built-in Follow-up and Marketing
The best estimate software helps you follow up with prospects and collect testimonials from satisfied customers.
- •Automated follow-up reminders
- •Easy revision and update process
- •Customer testimonial collection
- •Integration with review platforms
Estimate Software Options for Small Contractors
DaveRECOMMENDED
Professional contractor estimates
Dave is built specifically for small contractors who want professional estimates that win jobs. Industry-specific templates and mobile-first design make it easy to create estimates on the go.
Key features:
- •Industry-specific estimate templates
- •Professional branding and formatting
- •Mobile-friendly for job site use
- •Photos & notes logbook linked to each project
- •Easy customization without complexity
- •Fast change order creation and management
- •Instant PDF generation and sharing
- •Built-in follow-up tools
- •Customer review collection
Strengths:
- ✓Designed specifically for contractors
- ✓Professional templates that win jobs
- ✓Quick setup and easy to use
- ✓Affordable for small businesses
Limitations:
- •Newer platform compared to established players
- •Focused on core features vs extensive add-ons
Best for:
Small contractors who want professional estimates without complexity or high costs
Ready to create professional estimates that win jobs?
14-day free trial • No credit card required
Joist
Basic estimates and invoicing
A simple invoicing and estimate app with basic templates. Good for straightforward estimates but lacks advanced features.
Key features:
- •Basic estimate templates
- •Simple customization
- •Invoice integration
- •Payment processing
Strengths:
- ✓Simple interface
- ✓Basic functionality
Limitations:
- •Limited template variety
- •Basic customization options
- •No advanced project features
- •Generic templates not optimized for trades
Best for:
Contractors who need very basic estimates with minimal features
Buildertrend
Enterprise construction management
Comprehensive construction management with advanced estimating features. Powerful but expensive and complex for small contractors.
Key features:
- •Detailed estimate breakdowns
- •Advanced project management
- •Client communication tools
- •Extensive reporting
Strengths:
- ✓Comprehensive features
- ✓Advanced estimating tools
Limitations:
- •Very expensive for small contractors
- •Complex setup and learning curve
- •Overkill for simple jobs
- •Requires training to use effectively
Best for:
Large contractors with complex projects and big budgets
Pro Tips for Creating Winning Estimates
📸 Include Photos for Context
Add photos of the work area to your estimates. This shows you've actually assessed the job and helps prevent scope creep later.
See how Dave makes photo estimates easy →💼 Brand Your Estimates Professionally
Include your logo, contact information, and professional formatting. Your estimate should look as professional as your work.
Learn about professional project organization →⚡ Send Estimates Immediately
The faster you can get your estimate to the customer, the better your chances of winning the job. Mobile-friendly tools help you send estimates from the job site.
Pro tip: Follow up within 2-3 days if you haven't heard back. Most contractors don't follow up, so you'll stand out.
Ready to Win More Jobs with Professional Estimates?
Dave's estimate templates are specifically designed for contractors. Professional formatting, industry-specific layouts, and mobile-friendly design help you create winning estimates in minutes, not hours.
14-day free trial • No credit card required • 5-minute setup
Build a smarter,
stronger
business
Quick Estimates
Send estimates fast, look professional, and stand out from the first impression.
Organized Projects
Stay confident and in control with photos, notes, and files exactly where you need them.
Professional Invoices
Send branded invoices in seconds, track when they're seen, and get paid fast.
Get Reviews
Be the contractor that clients remember. Send review links with photos in seconds.
Built by contractors,
for contractors
We worked side by side with real contractors who were tired of bouncing between multiple tools and bloated apps. Dave cuts the clutter so you can run your jobs in one place.
All your jobs, clients, and invoices in one place.
Join the other pros using Dave to quote faster, stay organized, and stack wins on every job.
"My clients have even commented on how professional and convenient it is. Highly recommend it to any contractor looking to simplify their workflow."
Lukas, Eucalyptus Landscaping