Salesforce + Buildertrend = seamless lead management

Unidirectional. With this one-way sync, data will only be sent from Salesforce to Buildertrend. Future iterations of the integration will be bidirectional and keep data up to date between the two systems.

TBD

No. The data can take up to five minutes to sync from Salesforce to Buildertrend.

Yes! You can download our app from the App Store or Google Play. Just use the same username and password as you do on the desktop site.

Yes! You can invite clients to collaborate with your team on their project through the Client Portal. Clients create their own usernames and passwords, so information remains secure. Schedule a demo to see it in action.

Your clients will see their own portal within Buildertrend’s construction management software, which displays project information and updates. They can check out the job price, status updates, real-time weather reports and more.

Your monthly Buildertrend subscription comes with:

• Dedicated Buildertrend team members that provide software training and help answer your questions. Upon signup, you’ll get a custom onboarding plan with support throughout the life of your subscription.
• Setup assistance, including data entry, to get your account started on the right foot.
• Branding and customization of your Buildertrend account, so it feels like a true extension of your business.

Yes! You can invite your subcontractors to access Buildertrend for free through the Sub Portal. They only see the jobs, documents and tasks you choose to share with them. Subcontractors who use Buildertrend can also get paid faster through Buildertrend Payments.

Yes, the Buildertrend app has the same features and functionality as the desktop site. Even when you’re on a job site, you’ll always have access to your job details, leads and communication.

You can easily upload and store any of your files (documents, videos, photos) to your Buildertrend account. See more of what you can upload to Buildertrend during a live demo.

Buildertrend is the leading cloud-based construction project management software trusted by home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors. Since 2006, we’ve empowered the construction industry with a better way to build. More than 1 million users across more than 100 countries have chosen Buildertrend as their preferred platform for real-time collaboration throughout each and every stage of the building process. Our features help construction professionals complete more projects while reducing delays, eliminating communication errors and increasing customer satisfaction.

Construction professionals choose Buildertrend over other project management systems because we’re a truly customizable platform that scales as your company grows. Unlike other software solutions, our features are targeted toward and built specifically for construction. Because of this, we know the industry inside and out, your pain points and the goals driving today’s contractors – our digital tools help you tackle it all. Spreadsheets are nice for numbers, but when it comes to construction project management, you need more. We’re built different than other construction-specific platforms, too. No other program is built specifically for residential construction management with such a vast array of tools.

The industry trusts Buildertrend – and for good reason. We are aligned with the strictest security measures available, so you can stay assured that your data is kept safe. We secure and protect the information of customers worldwide with absolute transparency and unlimited support. At Buildertrend, we genuinely care about your privacy and doing right by you and your data.

Yes! Buildertrend offers construction estimating software for home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors. Accurate estimates create a project roadmap to help predict costs, quantities, labor hours and more.

Buildertrend stands alone in the market because of its robust mobile app. There is close to full functionality native in our app, which means that Buildertrend users never find themselves having to access their internet browser on their mobile devices to get functionality. Additionally, our award-winning support sets us apart. We were honored as one of the top Customer Service Departments for consecutive years by the American Business Awards. Stumped by … anything? Our smart, friendly experts are here to help. More residential construction professionals trust us than any other tech solution.

It doesn’t take much to get started with Buildertrend – all you need is a computer and access to the internet. We make it that simple. That’s because our platform is cloud-based, removing the need for local backups and complicated version control. All of your project files are safely stored offsite on a server that’s always backed up and up to date. Your data is safe from computer failures and human error. Our program is fully mobile and also supported on cellphones and tablets. Using Wi-Fi or data, your jobs can go with you wherever you go.

The length of time it takes to set up a project varies due to a variety of factors. However, based on research of internal data, we know our users spend significantly less time on scheduling and job production. Our features allow you to make and share updates in real-time, and templates can be used throughout a project – so you never have to start from scratch. To further simplify setup, our support team can guide you through the features and functionalities you need to get any job off the ground and through the finish line. We’re your partner in success.

Yep, you have immediate access to Buildertrend Learning Academy once you’re one of our customers. Through advanced educational courses, learn how to best use our construction project management software. You can choose a path based on feature, business role or if you’re onboarding.

Buildertrend is designed for every member of your team, from project managers and superintendents to office staff and executives. With customizable permissions and access levels, you can ensure each team member has the right tools and information to do their job effectively. Plus, we include unlimited users in your pricing, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs as your team grows.

Buildertrend simplifies home building. With construction management software, all the day-to-day administrative work like keeping track of timelines or updating clients is performed on a single platform. This removes the need to have spur of the moment calls or wonder what’s next. All information is readily available.

Yes. Using features like Customer Portal, Daily Logs and AI Client Updates, you can keep buyers in the loop automatically. AI Client Updates turns your daily logs straight into a homeowner-ready progress report. In the portal, buyers see progress notes, photos and can send or receive messages, so you’re always on the same page. Plus, they can make selections, see the budget and view the schedule.

Yes. You can invite subcontractors into the platform with Sub Portal feature. They can be given access to documents relevant to the project, and if any changes are made impacting their schedule, they’ll automatically be notified from the platform.

Ask your subs to download the Buildertrend mobile app, too. This way, they can communicate while on the job site or on the go.

Your monthly Buildertrend subscription comes with:

• Dedicated Buildertrend team members to provide software training and answer any questions you may have. After you sign up, you’ll also get a custom onboarding plan and have the option to have unlimited training.
• Setup assistance that includes data entry to help get your account ready for your business, so you can see an immediate impact.
• Branding and customization of your Buildertrend account, so it feels like a true extension of your business.

Buildertrend’s construction project management software gives you the tools you need to have more accurate estimates, faster scheduling and better communication. See our full list of project management features to understand how we help remodelers like you.

Yes – Buildertrend is built to display the construction schedule for a single job, a few jobs or all your jobs to give you visibility into all of your projects in progress.

Remodelers utilize many of Buildertrend’s software features including task management, change orders and team and client communication.

Buildertrend’s construction project management software gives you the tools you need to have more accurate estimates, faster scheduling and better communication. See our full list of project management features to understand how we help specialty contractors like you.

Yes – With Buildertrend accessible in the palm of your hand, there’s no need to travel back and forth from the job site to the office! Capturing job progress notes, photos, videos and more only takes minutes. Plus, they will immediately upload to your account, even notifying your admin staff, clients, and subcontractors, if needed!

Yes – Labor hours can easily be tracked per job and invoiced to your client through QuickBooks or directly through Buildertrend. The Time Clock makes it easy to review your budget and make sure you’re staying on target at any point during the build.

Yes! Buildertrend’s software can support any construction business with their project management needs. We have solutions for both commercial and specialty contractors, residential building companies and remodeling businesses of all sizes. Our platform has a range of tools that can help businesses of all sizes move forward and reach long-term goals.

As a commercial contractor, you’ve got many big projects happening at once. And multiple projects happening simultaneously means a whole lot of moving parts. Keeping everything organized is essential but isn’t always an easy task. Buildertrend’s project management software makes file management streamlined by allowing you to store essential files, keep track of project details and communicate effectively all from one platform. You’ll keep everything separated into job-specific folders, so nothing ever gets lost. Everyone involved can easily access the files they need anytime.

Our headquarters is located at 11818 I Street, Omaha, Nebraska. However, select positions are open to remote work. Please check individual job postings to see the location requirements.

We’re constantly growing our team. Keep an eye out for future opportunities and follow us on social media for updates on new openings!

Please reach out to talent@buildertrend.com and a member from our team will get back to you!

Yes – We offer a Summer Development Internship program for developers that runs for 12 weeks from May-August each year. We also have standard internships that are offered as-needed and run year-round. Both programs are based in Omaha, Nebraska.

Yes – Our talent team attends fall and spring career fairs at most local universities in the Nebraska area.

Sure! Our talent and recruiting team will determine what the best mutual fit is and consider you for one or potentially multiple opportunities.

We’re casual here! In fact, it’s likely that our interviewing team will be in jeans. We want you to be comfortable, so we’ll leave the dress code open and up to you.

One of our talent and recruiting team members will work with you to make sure you have everything you need before your first day. We’ll send you onboarding documents to complete along with a snapshot of what to expect ahead of your first day. You’ll be part of one of our hiring classes, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and connect with other new fellow Buildertrend employees.

Yes – We love referrals! All Buildertrend positions have a referral bonus tied to them.

No. Unfortunately, Buildertrend does not integrate with other CRM softwares. Our sales platform provides many of the client relationship management tools you require. We know we can meet your needs with our customization options and help you easily move from your current platform to Buildertrend. That way everything is streamlined in one place.

Yes! Buildertrend’s built-in construction proposal software can be customized to fit the needs of your business. No matter the size of your company, you can choose the options that work best with your current processes. You can personalize your settings, preferences, notifications, color scheme and more.

Yes! Buildertrend construction project management software works with all technology platforms and brands. You can access your projects from your desktop, tablet and mobile phone. View leads, send emails and get notifications from anywhere at any time, so you never miss the opportunity to land a sale.

The Sales platform within Buildertrend’s software makes it easy for you to gather and track leads from initial inquiry to final sale. We can even help you link your website’s contact form to your Buildertrend account, so all potential client information is automatically saved. You can set up automated responses with your personalized company logo and receive notifications that allow you to respond quickly.

Buildertrend’s financial software can help any construction business – large or small – manage their budget and cash flow down to the last penny. Whether you’re a residential builder, commercial or specialty contractor or remodeler, Buildertrend can help you grow and strengthen your bottom line.

A major part of remodeling project software is managing cashflow, which Buildertrend makes easy. We offer financial features like Bids, Estimates, Bills and POs, Invoices and Change Orders to make financial management and communication a breeze. You can also use our Work in Progress report to effortlessly track changes, make updates in real time and stay on top of your bottom line.

Yes! Buildertrend’s construction estimating software integrates with many commonly used financial programs like QuickBooks and Xero. You won’t have to start over or spend time transferring information from one platform to another. You can also upload your financial data from Excel spreadsheets directly into Buildertrend.

Yes! Buildertrend’s payment processing provides an online platform that allows your clients to make payments and provide electronic signatures for contracts and invoices. With online payments, you’ll get paid faster and can pay subcontractors with ease.

Yes! Buildertrend’s construction software allows your employees to clock in and out from anywhere with their smartphone or tablet. Using this time tracking feature makes it easy to manage hours worked and streamline the payroll components within Buildertrend’s financial tools.

Buildertrend’s financial tools save you money in many ways. It keeps you from eating un-invoiced costs, eliminates double entry and helps you stay on budget and provides reports that help grow your bottom line.

Buildertrend’s project management software can help any construction business manage their jobs with ease. We support residential building companies, commercial and specialty contractors and remodeling business of all sizes. Our platform has a range of tools that can move your business forward and help you reach your long-term goals.

As a contractor, organization can be one of your biggest challenges. With multiple projects in progress at the same time, it’s sometimes difficult to stay on top of all the moving parts. Buildertrend’s project management software makes file management easy by allowing you to store essential files, keep track of project details and communicate effectively all from one streamlined platform. You’ll keep everything separated into job-specific folders, so nothing ever gets lost. Project stakeholders can easily access the files they need anytime.

Between emails, phone calls, voicemails and texts, everyday communication in the construction industry can be difficult to keep up with. Buildertrend’s project management software helps you manage essential details and updates from any device all in one convenient place. Our construction tech offers several methods of communication that your team, subcontractors and clients can benefit from. All features within our platform work seamlessly to ensure effective communication for everyone, from anywhere at any time. A few of our user favorites include Tasks, Daily Logs, Customer Portal and Subcontractor Portal.

Yes! Our electronic warranty functionality makes it simple to submit warranty issues, track claims and schedule appointments. Managing warranties doesn’t have to be time consuming. Buildertrend’s warranty feature within our project management software makes it easy to file claims and even sends notifications alerting you of upcoming expiration dates.

Yes! Buildertrend’s construction estimating software integrates with many commonly used programs like QuickBooks and Xero. You won’t have to start over or spend time transferring information from one platform to another. You can also upload data from Excel spreadsheets directly into Buildertrend.

Yes! One of the best properties of Buildertrend’s project management software is that it’s cloud based. This means you can make changes to blueprints, project plans and other documents in real time. All file adjustments, project updates and daily communications are automatically updated and available to anyone who has access.

Buildertrend’s software gives your clients access to various aspects of their projects. Provide clients with progress photos, accept electronic signatures and allow clients to make comments and changes to project plans directly on the app from a tablet or smartphone.

Yes, Buildertrend construction business software provides your clients with surveys and compiles the results into useful data to help improve your business. Clients can also write reviews directly in the app.

The communication options are limitless with Buildertrend’s CRM software for contractors. Clients can choose design options, provide electronic signatures, opt into warranties and contact you with any questions or comments about their project. Open lines of communication help put clients at ease.

Yes, the Buildertrend application is easy to use on all types and brands of devices. Buildertrend CRM software for contractors is compatible with most tablets, smartphones, computers and operating systems so that your clients will have no trouble gaining access to important project details.

Buildertrend University, Onsite Consulting and Pro Websites are services we offer in addition to our software platform. These services are not included as part of your Buildertrend subscription and need to be purchased separately. Learn more about each one by clicking the “Get started” buttons below each service.

You can find more information on pricing by clicking the “Get started” buttons below each service.

Click “Get started” under the service you’re interested in and you’ll find more information on how to sign up.

Buildertrend University is held every month. Onsite Consulting, Pro Websites and Custom Reporting are done on your schedule.

Rates will vary based on how payments are being sent and received.

Receiving payments from clients:

• Flat $15 fee per ACH transaction
• Debit: 1.95% + $0.30 per transaction
• Standard credit: 2.65% +$0.30 per transaction
• Premium credit: 3.25% + $0.30 per transaction
• AMEX and Commercial cards: 3.95% + $0.30 per transaction

Disclaimer: “Current merchant processing fees are: 1.95% + $0.30 for US consumer debit cards. 2.65% + $0.30 for standard credit cards where there is not an associated points or rewards redemption value and that are under the Discover, Mastercard and Visa brands. 3.25% + $0.30 for premium credit cards where there is an associated points or rewards redemption value and all non-US domestic credit and debit cards under the Discover, Mastercard, and Visa brands. 3.95% for all American Express cards and commercial and business cards under the Discover, Mastercard and Visa brands. Buildertrend credit and debit card processing fees are subject to change.”

Sending payments to subs and vendors:
Digital and mailed checks are all $1.49 per transaction. (This service is free for subs and vendors receiving payments.)

Your subcontractors will receive e-checks immediately through the email you send. It’ll then depend on how quickly they open their email and which deposit option they choose. They can choose from one of these two options:

• Digital checks: Available immediately for deposit
• Mailed checks: Delivered by USPS in 3-14 business days

Processing time for ACH and credit cards is 2-4 days.

Builder’s risk insurance covers the structure of a single-family residential project in the event of fire, hail, wind, vandalism or theft of materials that will become permanent parts of the structure. This includes materials like windows, lumber, appliances, HVAC, etc.

Rather than relying on your clients to secure builder’s risk insurance and keep track of policies, you can purchase a policy for each project and include it in the overall cost. With builder’s risk insurance, you can confidently tell homeowners that you can build their home and provide security with this policy.

Using money received from one project to pay expenses on another is risky for your business. Running on this thin margin of cash flow means that an unexpected expense could derail both projects. This unreliable method forces you to count on the money from new projects to pay for current projects. By having credit readily available, you’re able to cover costs between projects or unplanned business expenses.

A standard credit card will typically have lower limits, higher interest rates and a flexible repayment plan. A line of credit through Buildertrend is designed to offer more credit at lower rates, while also making sure you don’t take on interest beyond a pre-determined time frame. The money is ready when you need it and deposited directly into your bank account as soon as a draw is requested.

If you plan to use credit responsibly and want to grow your business, this solution is ideal. Having extra cash on hand helps avoid delays on jobs and leads to more completed projects. You can also use your credit to cover business expenses or upgrade equipment. This will help you increase the amount of profitable jobs your business can take on.

Construction estimating is an important but difficult task. Inaccurate estimates can lead to financial losses and unsatisfied clients. Construction estimating software can make estimating easier by calculating costs associated with a job beforehand.

Construction payment software is a way to automate the payment process between general contractors and their subs or clients. It allows them to pay and get paid online through use of a credit card or e-check.

Yes. It helps with having a healthy cash flow and keeps subs and clients happy. If you’re waiting weeks to get paid, you’ve upset subs with delayed payments or you’ve lost out on a job because the client wanted more convenient options – it’s time to upgrade.

Rates and fees for using construction payment software will vary based on the how payments are being sent and received. Learn more about Buildertrend Payments to see our rates.

Daily logs are the records of everything relevant that happened on a job site each day. They’re the evidence of what’s been completed, who worked on what, the site conditions and what equipment or materials were used.

Daily reporting is critical for keeping everyone from the field to the office up to date on what’s happening at each construction job site. They can help protect your business from legal issues and prevent delays.

Typically, your foreman, superintendent or project manager is responsible for recording the daily logs.

When you use a construction management software, like Buildertrend, all your logs are stored and organized online for easy access.

Yes. Subs should be encouraged to fill out daily logs for their contractors to help strengthen the relationship and prevent miscommunication. Read our blog to learn more about how your subs can create daily logs in our platform.

Construction schedules can be created in several ways. Some project managers choose to manually create schedules in spreadsheets, using pen and paper, or whiteboards.

Creating a schedule within a construction scheduling software is a better choice, as it provides a working document that can update based on different views. For example, using a Gantt chart, you can visually create a schedule across a range of dates. Or, you can organize scheduled work in a list view.

These schedules can be saved as templates to reduce the amount of time it takes to create schedules for future projects. Then, communicate the schedule and assign tasks to your team and subcontractors to ensure every task is accounted for and given an assigned due date.

Depending on the construction payment software you use, it may include accounting integrations to record payments automatically. Buildertrend’s construction payment software integrates with QuickBooks and Xero, so you’ll never have to worry about double entry.

Your subs will receive e-checks immediately through email. It’ll then depend on how quickly they open their email and which deposit option they choose. They can opt to print the check themselves or have it mailed to them.

Processing time for ACH and credit cards is 3-5 days.

You’ll receive full support of a Buildertrend team member to onboard you and your crew. Your support team will help set up your account with data entry and build out your platform, so it looks and feels like an extension of your business.

To create an efficient and helpful construction project schedule, start by selecting a construction planning tool (like Buildertrend) to help you create your schedule. Then, conduct real-time research on the project, find your subcontractors, list the project tasks at hand and determine the expected time frame and effort for each task.

From there, you can assign tasks, share the schedule with your clients and get to work.

There are a variety of different types of schedules, and they all depend on the project you have in front of you. Using Buildertrend, you can select from scheduling techniques like a Gantt chart, list view, workday expectations and more.

Buildertrend’s Schedule feature is the tool your construction company needs to get the job done right and right on time. By helping keep your projects on track and maintain your timelines, you’ll be able to take on more jobs and build your business right at your fingertips.

Using Buildertrend also removes the need to combine a number of systems and keeps all the tools you need at your fingertips.

If you use a construction invoicing software, the document will be generated with all the generic details needed on an invoice. You’ll just ensure the details are accurate before sending it off to the client. In Buildertrend, you can create an invoice directly off another feature, such as an Estimate, Lead Proposal, Bill, Purchase Order, Change Order or Selection. If creating a manual invoice, you’ll need to add all the details yourself and triple check for accuracy. An invoicing software does this for you.

Construction invoicing software offers a number of benefits, including improved accuracy, faster payment processing, simplified tracking of invoices and reduced paperwork. It can also make it easier to create and manage estimates and contracts. Additionally, users benefit from better visibility into their financials, allowing them to make more informed decisions and better manage their business. Overall, construction invoicing software can help save time and money, while providing a more efficient and organized system for managing finances.

Construction invoices should be managed efficiently for successful project completion. Start by organizing invoices chronologically and by project. Create a filing system and store each invoice in the appropriate folder. Set up a tracking system to monitor payments and ensure invoices are paid promptly. Stay up to date on all invoices and double check all billing information before sending.

Finally, create a process for dealing with any disputes or discrepancies in a timely manner. If you’re using a construction invoicing software, everything is tracked and managed online for you – so you don’t have to worry about an unorganized filing system or forgetting to send out a reminder.

Our construction project management software gives you the tools you need to build more accurate estimates, create precise timelines and improve communication with everyone involved. See our full list of project management features to understand how we help remodelers like you.

Yes. Buildertrend is designed to give you visibility into all your projects and keep everything organized – so nothing important gets missed.

Remodelers use many of Buildertrend’s software features including the Schedule, Tasks, Daily Logs, Selections, Estimate and Bids.

First, do your research and refer to past projects to make an informed decision on your budgeted numbers. Then set estimated costs for what you expect to spend on the project. This will help you compare your estimated numbers to actual numbers as the project progresses. Lastly, account for variable or unexpected costs within your project’s budget. This can include increased costs for materials, overtime labor costs or unforeseen mistakes.

The three parts of a construction budget are estimated costs, revised costs and total costs. The estimated costs will be any costs you set at the beginning of the project. That’s what you anticipate spending. The revised costs will come after you lock in the estimated numbers on your budget. Those will be anything that’s changed after the project starts. The revised costs will help you see how accurate your estimated numbers are. Lastly, you have total costs, which covers all costs, including bills, purchase orders, labor hours and change orders associated with each line in the budget.

Construction budgets are best tracked within a construction management software with a dedicated project financials toolkit. Having construction cost tracking software will enable your budget to track in real time. You will need features for billing, purchase orders, estimating, bidding, invoicing, reporting and budgeting. To track a budget, you will compare your estimated costs to actual or total costs.

Yes. Buildertrend’s software can support any construction business with their project management needs. We have solutions for both commercial and specialty contractors, residential building companies and remodeling businesses of all sizes. Our platform has a range of tools that can help businesses move forward and reach long-term goals.

As a commercial contractor, you’ve got many big projects happening at once. And multiple projects happening simultaneously means a whole lot of moving parts. Keeping everything organized is essential but isn’t always an easy task. Buildertrend’s project management software makes file management streamlined by allowing you to store essential files, keep track of project details and communicate effectively all from one platform. You’ll keep everything separated into job-specific folders, so nothing ever gets lost. Everyone involved can easily access the files they need anytime.

Sustainability in construction means building greener by implementing sustainable practices like reducing waste, reducing carbon emissions, conserving energy use, and using recycled or renewable building materials.

Sustainable construction saves money and protects the environment. The use of recycled and renewable building materials and efficient project management tools like Buildertrend reduces waste and carbon footprint.

Sustainable construction practices offer multiple benefits:

• Save time – Reducing rework time means you can start a new project sooner.
• Save money – Reduced waste of energy, water, resources and time equates to more money in your pocket.
• Save the environment – Renewable and reusable resources have a lower environmental impact, and are included in other sustainable construction methods that lead to better biodiversity and less greenhouse gas emissions.

It can be more expensive but does not have to be. Find a builder who uses sustainable materials – they should already have sustainable material suppliers who offer the building materials at a good price.

The air quality inside your home is one of the most important things to consider when building a healthy home. Other important aspects include moisture management and the local sourcing of renewable materials.

One obvious benefit of building a sustainable, healthy house is a healthier family due to the great air quality and absence of toxic chemicals. Green building leads to a lower carbon footprint, which benefits the environment.

Daily construction reports should include updates on everything that happened on the construction site that day. Examples of what should be included are site attendance, delays, work performed and completed, and materials and equipment used.

Daily logs are an important part of any construction project to keep clients and stakeholders informed at all times. By tracking completed work and possible delays, home builders can accurately communicate the status of the construction project and make informed decisions.

By using construction software like Buildertrend, you and your team can update the progress of your construction project from any device. This keeps every construction worker informed and allows you to save time on construction meetings that would discuss daily progress.

Construction branding is the brand logo and other brand identifiers that are designed to build your construction brand’s visual identity, set you apart from your competitors, and help existing and potential customers recognize your construction company’s work.

Branding is important because it differentiates you from your competition, and it visually identifies your construction company at any real estate or other construction site that you’re working at.

To rebrand your construction company, you should consult with a branding agency and graphic designers on the ideas you have and then hire them to help create your new and improved brand identity design and brand guide. You could also use this new gathered information to create templates and ensure brand message consistency going forward.

Examples of marketing plans in construction include strategies targeting different marketing channels such as construction email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing or paid advertising (like PPC). Construction businesses can advertise their strengths through these channels to increase brand awareness and attract new clients.

Construction marketing plans should include user personas from your target audience, market research to analyze strengths and weaknesses, marketing ideas for different channels and a budget that allows you to attract new customers while retaining a positive return on investment. 

Construction business owners can attract potential clients by developing a marketing strategy that includes outreach through social media platforms and email marketing. Offering your target audience relevant content and testimonials can help attract new business and increase conversions.

Buildertrend is the best purchase order system and construction software provider in the industry. Use Buildertrend PO software to:

• Create POs directly from quotes, variations or bids
• Create POs from scratch or use templates to save time
• Clearly detail scope of work
• Track PO status and gain approvals faster
• Link POs to calendars, schedules and communication portals
• Link to cost codes and budgets for data accuracy
• Track variances and job costing profitability
• Generate quick reporting

Buildertrend integrates PO information with other financial construction software needs, including bidding and estimates, invoicing and payments.

Although purchase order software helps support successful procurement by detailing the costs of an expected goods or services order, procurement software manages the process of acquiring those goods or services. For example, purchase order software tracks the scope of work, costs, approvals and associated job details that the costs should be tied back to. Procurement software helps source, process and pay for those goods and services.  

Purchase order software helps protect your construction business’s profits. A PO system ensures you’re not making unnecessary payments. In cases when expenses are higher than estimates, POs help support job costing, so you can dig into profitability and make adjustments where needed.

A bill is a simple document in Buildertrend, where you can record the reason for the bill, the cost code it applies to and who completed the work described. Bills tend to cover smaller business expenses, such as dumpster fees, permits or quick material purchases. A purchase order offers more versatility and complexity. In Buildertrend, purchase orders are commonly used as a subcontract to track commitments and expenses, ensure payment schedules and more.

No. To release a purchase order to a subcontractor using Buildertrend, you only need to have a valid email address on file. Then they can sign off through their email and go back into the Buildertrend system.

Yes – contracts require parties to be notified when errors, conflicts or omissions are found. Not only does the RFI document a process, but it’s also a contractual obligation and fundamental process for successful delivery of projects. An RFI is used extensively in the residential construction industry.

The purpose of an RFI is to document the asking and answering of a specific question related to the construction project. The question may address an information gap, unclear wording or an issue that requires some sort of resolution both before and during a construction project.

Some RFIs go unanswered because of the following:

• The request required too many resources (time, costs, etc.)
• The answer is found in other documents
• The RFI was improperly addressed
• It’s missing information
• The RFI did not follow the process

The construction estimating process can take time to master. Investing in construction or building estimating software like Buildertrend helps automate the process. A software tool can cut time and ensure you formulate accurate estimates.

1. Reviewing construction specifications and drawings
2. Executing a construction takeoff
3. Building a construction estimate using an estimating tool
4. Determining your profit and overhead costs
5. Presenting it to your client in a proposal

One common mistake is inaccurate takeoffs. If this information is inaccurate, it can be detrimental to your construction estimate. Invest in a construction takeoff software to help you with this step and guarantee you provide accurate estimates.

Another common mistake is the “in your head” estimating method. While you may be experienced in construction and making good guesses when it comes to your estimating, it’s far safer to work in a construction estimating software. An estimating tool ensures you’re making less errors and allows you to check your work.

A construction project estimate is a type of cost estimate. A construction project estimate is specifically used to formulate the expected cost of building the structure for your project.

A good construction estimator is organized, detail-oriented and a critical thinker. While you can be a savvy construction estimator on your own, it’s also crucial to have software that can assist with the building estimating process. An estimating tool will help to automate the process so you can spend your time building your business and taking care of clients.

Work in progress for project accounting is the total accumulated costs or revenue on a project that’s still in progress. Actual project costs and revenue for hours and expenses are tracked to understand the financial status of a job.

A construction work in progress report can be analyzed in near real-time through a comprehensive report. You’re able to see accurate data for total construction billings, profit margins and cost to complete on individual jobs or all in-progress jobs.

According to Viewpoint, construction accounting departments use spreadsheets for 59% of their processes, and project managers use spreadsheets for 45% of their work. This means, more often than not, project financials are being tracked manually.

Managing spreadsheets can be great for some things, but not for constantly changing data on construction WIP reports. Manually entered data is not only outdated minutes after it’s updated, but it can also lead to other problems like:

• Human error in data updates
• Unnecessary double entry
• Inconsistencies in information

All of these issues can be avoided with Buildertrend’s WIP reporting software. Updates are made in real time with the latest information, so you always know where each project stands.

When it comes to your construction WIP reports, you want to find a balance. A high WIP report can mean your team is working on too much at once and not meeting their project deadlines. On the other hand, a low WIP report means too many things are sitting without progress due to issues like third-party delays.

Using WIP reporting software can ensure you’re always where you need to be. Check the status of each project regularly and make adjustments as needed before it’s too late.

Construction documents should be organized in a way that’s quick to upload, find, open and save information. For most construction companies, the best method of file management is to categorize by project. To help achieve successful file management, you should include consistent naming structures, version control systems and a standard operating procedure for use.

A document management system is a type of software that helps construction companies manage and organize documents electronically, rather than through manual or paper-driven systems. Common types of files it houses include contracts, change orders, permits, specifications and even architecture drawings or engineering plans.

Buildertrend’s construction company software is a best-in-class solution designed to help with construction document management. It connects all core components of a construction business: the sales process, financial management, project management and communication. Using materials management within Buildertrend, you can securely store, share and access information from each of these areas in a single centralized space.

Every construction company, regardless of size, location or specialty, should use document control software as a tool to improve organization, accessibility and efficiency of managing construction documents. It helps support teamwork, compliance, homeowner satisfaction and profitability.

Buildertrend’s file management system lets users access documents from anywhere. That means even if you’re on a construction site using our mobile app, you can view documents as easily as if you were using a desktop at your office. It’s supported by secure cloud-hosted technology, meaning your information is always right at your fingertips when you need it.

Job costing is a way for your construction company to accurately track all costs associated with each job. The total job cost includes labor, materials and overhead. By creating a detailed cost breakdown for the entire project, you can track expenses in real time and assess profitability. The more detailed the breakdown, the more likely you’re able to combat issues early that could affect profit margins.

To calculate job cost for each construction project, you’ll use this formula:

Total job cost = materials + labor + overhead

Job costing throughout each project is crucial to keeping your company’s profit margins high and the job on track. Through job costing you’re able to compare estimated costs with actual costs so you can target overspending and resolve issues early. It’s important to provide a picture of exactly where your money is going. You can also assess how well you’re managing resources. Overall, job costing ensures your business maintains a healthy cash flow and profit margin.

Labor, materials and overhead costs all go into the total job cost. Expenses to add to the calculation include labor hours for crew members and subcontractors and material costs like wood, safety equipment and concrete. Lastly, you’ll add in overhead costs, which can include permits, temporary office space or sanitation facilities.

Two common costing methods are job costing and process costing. Job costing is detailed and best for unique projects. It requires intense record-keeping and accounting for every single cost. Process costing is used as a standard pricing approach for mass-producing large volumes of similar goods. It’s used most in manufacturing industries.

Construction accounting software is a management tool for organizing your company’s finances. Features within the software assist with job costing, payroll, reporting and more. 

A good construction accounting software solution is easy to use. To help simplify the finance part of the job, choose a cloud-based program that can be accessed from the field by unlimited users. 

When considering construction accounting software, look for features relating to job costing, payroll and reporting. It’s important to check if the program you’re considering is cloud-based and integrates smoothly with your existing construction management software. If it doesn’t, find an accounting software solution that does. Otherwise, transferring your information is a waste of time.  

The easiest way to start using a construction client portal is to invest in software that has one. After that, you’re able to simply add client contact information into the system and invite them to participate. From there, they can set up their own password to their portal. You, as a builder, can customize which aspects of the project the client can see when logging in.

The purpose of a construction client portal is to be transparent with your clients and allow them to see project updates. It’s a central location for all project data, including a budget, schedule, selections and photos. It’s also used as a streamlined communication tool between a construction company and its client.

In a client portal, you want the option to share the project progress with your client through a schedule and photos. You’ll want to choose a portal that has a user-friendly interface so clients can make selections, sign documents and communicate effectively with you. A construction client portal app is also valuable to have so your clients can access information right from their smartphone.

In the past, we’ve always welcomed all our Buildertrend customers and their teams to attend. But starting in 2023, we changed up the structure of this event. Now, each session is tailored to where you’re at in your Buildertrend journey and what your role is within your company. With this new focus, you’ll want to choose the right session that fits your needs so you can get the most out of your investment.

Depending on which session you choose to attend, you’ll learn how to use the tools needed for your position, as well as best practices and strategies to be successful in your role. All sessions will include feature-based classes, interactive workshops and one-on-one coaching. Besides the classes, you’ll also get a tour of Buildertrend headquarters, a chance to meet our leadership team and the opportunity to network during meals and happy hours.

Breakfast and lunch are hosted both days, and these are great opportunities to chat with your fellow attendees. The interactive workshops between classes give you the chance to ask questions and learn from your peers. We host daily happy hours and a group dinner party at a local hot spot so you can relax, reflect on the day’s teachings and just have a good time.

The common causes of construction project changes include: design and scope, material, regulatory or subcontractor factors. Effective change management is essential to minimize the impact of changes on project performance, timeline and budget.

There are six main steps in project change management.

1. Identifying the change
2. Evaluating the impact of the change on time, budget and other work
3. Creating a change request
4. Receiving signoff approval
5. Taking action on the change
6. Monitoring the completion of the change

Assessing the impact that a change has on a construction project involves evaluating the effect it will have on the project’s scope, budget, timeline and resources. Construction software can be used to help you assess this impact. For example, if a change request will push out a project’s timeline, you can use Buildertrend’s scheduling software to determine how other dependent work is affected.

It’s best to provide a clear framework for change to minimize potential conflicts from homeowners. With Buildertrend’s construction communication and documentation software, you can control document storage in a shared space so you can refer back to the reasons for change and approvals. Then, readjust work to minimize implications on other stakeholders, like construction crews, subcontractors and vendors.

Integrations are connections between different software and third-party applications. This connection makes it possible for information to be sent back and forth between the two platforms.

Using integrations is helpful for any business – even in the construction industry. Having these will make processes easier for your team and reduce the risk of having errors.

Construction integrations solve your need for new software as your business continues to grow. You’re able to keep your current platform and add connections to other applications as you need them. Processes will be streamlined for your team, and the chance of mistakes will be lower.

Buildertrend has many integrations to choose from. You can see our full lineup of supported software on this page.

Construction invoicing is the process of billing clients for the services provided by a construction company. These invoices typically include labor costs, material costs and any other expenses associated with the project. Construction invoicing is an important part of the construction business because it helps ensure that the company is paid in a timely manner for the work that has been completed.

A construction invoice should include details such as the client’s name and contact information, the invoice number, the invoice date, a description of the services provided and the total amount due. It should also include any applicable taxes, fees or discounts. You may want to include payment terms and deadlines and information on how to pay the invoice.

The best way to send construction invoices is through electronic means such as email or through construction invoice software like Buildertrend. Electronic invoices are faster and more efficient than paper invoices and reduce the likelihood of errors. With construction software, you can also track the status of your invoices and receive notifications when they’ve been viewed or paid.

To ensure timely payments of construction invoices, it’s important to set clear payment terms and deadlines. Make sure your clients understand your payment policies and expectations upfront. Don’t forget to send reminders before the payment is due.

Most importantly, use the right tools for the job. Using construction software like Buildertrend can also help you track invoice status and send automatic reminders to clients who haven’t paid on time.

QuickBooks goes beyond book keeping when integrated with Buildertrend’s construction management software. The two-way sync functionality allows information to be passed between platforms. Job-specific expenses that originated in QuickBooks and can be sent to your Buildertrend budget for more accurate job costing. This means no more double entry. All information is accurate an available in one place whenever you need it.

The best question to ask is not about the industry but more about your specific business needs. Which version is best for the size of your business? How many employees will need access? This is a great place to start.

If you’re a small to mid-sized construction company, we recommend the most popular plan – the Plus. This allows five users to have access and has the ability to track all your projects, track labor costs, complete payroll and manage expenses.

The best part about choosing a plan is you can start small and upgrade to the next version as your business grows.

The Contractor Edition is an add-on that’ll specifically allow you to budget and plan for the cost of larger jobs. It will cost you $800/year on top of your normal subscription.

Some features include track change orders, create purchase orders and assign costs to jobs. The Contractor Edition is limited to five users, and it’s difficult to share your books with an external accountant.

However, the job cost feature is excellent, so we recommend it if you’re looking to plan and budget for larger projects. However, take note that this is a local program and is best used for companies with in-house bookkeepers. 

You can reduce construction project costs with proper planning. Good plans underline all your efforts – projects can derail after a simple oversight. While planning, consider the costs of things like materials, methods and contractors. Foresight is one of the best tools for construction cost management, so don’t forget to use it.

It might be hard to hear, but construction has many risks and uncertainties. The size of the project might grow, labor might become scarce, materials can increase in price, regulations may change and natural conditions might prevent work. That’s why planning and management are so important regarding construction costs.

A construction cost manager is in charge of a construction project’s budget. They plan, estimate and budget construction projects, including procurement of materials and suppliers. Risk management is also central to construction cost management, and the position generally entails saving money for the duration of a project.

Networking is crucial in the construction industry because it helps establish and maintain good relationships that can lead to business opportunities. It allows construction businesses to expand their contacts, gain industry insights, stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies and develop partnerships that can lead to new projects, contracts and referrals. Networking also provides access to valuable resources, expertise and support.

There are several ways to network in the construction industry, including construction networking events, professional organizations, project sites, referrals, online networking forums, communities and social media such as construction networking groups.

To make the most out of construction networking, consider the following tips:

1. Be proactive
2. Be genuine
3. Be prepared
4. Listen actively
5. Follow up
6. Share valuable knowledge

Construction companies can reap various benefits from networking in the construction industry, such as:

1. Business development opportunities
2. Industry insights
3. Knowledge sharing
4. Resource access
5. Professional development
6. Personal branding

Networking with subcontractors in the construction industry can be done through various methods, including industry events, project sites, subcontractor directories, referrals and online platforms.

Construction time tracking software like Buildertrend allows your team members to clock in and out using the mobile time clock app. Construction companies can track employee time worked in real time and have more reliable time reports and more accurate payroll processing without having to rely on paper timesheets.

Using a construction time clock or construction timesheet app lets you track employee hours without the need for paper or Excel spreadsheets. Integrations with QuickBooks and other accounting software also improve the payroll process, while GPS location tracking ensures that your field crew is always at the right location.

The best way to manage change orders in construction is to develop a clear process for submitting, reviewing and approving them in construction change order software. Be sure to review change orders promptly and collect all necessary signatures to approve the project timeline and budget updates. 

Change order software is a critical tool to effectively manage your construction projects. Efficient change order software will help your construction business save money by avoiding delays and/or rework, accurately track and update project budgets, reduce the risk of disputes and claims and improve communication.

The key to limiting the number of change orders in your construction project is to involve clients and team members in the preplanning stages. When all stakeholders contribute to the planning process, there’s less confusion on the scope of the project. Regular meetings and progress checks can be a good opportunity to identify and solve issues before they turn into change orders.

Common challenges with construction document management include organizing the large volume of documents, authorizing who has access to view what and finding the right document at the right time. Because of change orders and other project updates, another challenge is making sure everyone is working from the latest version.

Document management software houses and organizes documents that can be edited by multiple team members at the same time. The platform also acts as a communication hub for questions and feedback on project details.

Construction document management plays an important role within the larger reach of project management. Both involve planning, managing and coordinating to help the project meet deadlines and stay within budget. A project manager oversees the documents relating to the project, and construction document management is an important part of project management.

When it comes to construction customer service, using outdated tools such as email can be frustrating and take up a lot of time. Making the switch to a new tool may seem overwhelming, especially when you have a lot on your plate. 

Another problem is when team members lack visibility, leading to misunderstandings and errors. Ideally, you want to use tools everyone can access so no one’s left in the dark regarding project specifics.

Like any other industry, construction should be all about making people happy. Clients should expect and receive good customer service, which includes feeling like their specific needs are being heard and met. 

That’s why an open line of communication is so important. Using simple language to explain technical concepts, providing extra services and delivering everything on time and within budget will give clients huge satisfaction.

Customer support and training are also crucial for improving overall client satisfaction. It helps promote a customer-centric culture and enables businesses to understand the needs and preferences of their clients better. 

All types of construction projects require customer service. This includes residential construction, such as building homes, remodeling kitchens or bathrooms, and installing roofs or windows. 

The same goes for commercial projects such as office buildings, retail stores and warehouses or for industrial projects such as factories and power plants.

No matter the type of construction project, good customer service is necessary to ensure client satisfaction and repeat business.

One way to improve construction customer service is to conduct a post-project customer evaluation survey after the project is completed. This survey can help identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes to provide a better client experience. 

To create an effective survey, customize it to fit the project’s unique needs, and distribute it to the client as soon as the final project deliverable is handed over.

Make sure to send it to someone familiar with the project — someone who can provide accurate feedback, ideally at an equal level to the project manager. 

Once you have the feedback in hand, have the team review it and develop new ways to improve communication and processes. This will help increase overall customer satisfaction.

In the residential construction industry, there are three main types of construction businesses:

• General contractors
• Renovation and remodeling contractors
• Subcontractors specializing in specific trades

These businesses typically offer building services for custom homes, spec homes and existing residential structures.

The profitability of a construction business can vary based on market demand, location, company size and type of contracts. The average profit margin in construction is 6%. Using construction company software like Buildertrend can help you understand job profitability, identify opportunities to widen profit margins and gain efficiencies to save costs.

Managing a successful construction company requires dedication, attention to detail and flexibility. In addition to managing resources, timelines and schedules, construction business owners must also manage expectations of clients, employees, subcontractors and vendors. Software solutions developed specifically for the construction industry – like Buildertrend – can help.

Buildertrend’s Schedule feature is the tool your construction company needs to get the job done right and right on time. By helping keep your projects on track and maintain your timelines, you’ll be able to take on more jobs and build your business right at your fingertips.

Using Buildertrend also removes the need to combine a number of systems and keeps all the tools you need at your fingertips.

Buildertrend, your favorite construction management software, provides an easy integration that transfers information back and forth across platforms.

Check out our blog that details QuickBook’s two-way sync. 

The four phases of the residential construction project life cycle are planning, pre-construction, construction and close-out. The planning phase includes concept and design; it determines the main goals and general direction of the project. Pre-construction covers the estimate, obtaining permits, material procurement, equipment and labor. The construction phase is when the project is in action. The close-out means double checking the final details and handing the property over to the homeowner.The four phases of a residential construction project are planning, pre-construction, construction and close-out. This first step includes concept and design; it determines the main goals and general direction of the project. Pre-construction covers the estimate, obtaining permits, materials, equipment and labor. The construction phase is when the project is in action. The close-out means double checking the final details and handing the property over to the homeowner.

Some risks associated with residential construction projects include delays and going over budget. Delays are inevitable in the construction industry, but when they relate to material and weather … it’s out of everyone’s control. Delays along with unexpected project costs and poor work leads to another risk — upset clients.

A residential construction project manager’s job is to keep track of progress by setting clear goals and deadlines, performing daily site and subcontractor check-ins and completing regular budget analysis. The best way to organize each step of your project from concept to completion is to use a residential project management tool.  

The construction payment process starts with the homeowner who pays the general contractor who then pays the subcontractors and finally these subs pay their suppliers. Getting the homeowner to pay invoices on time is vital to ensure all payments run hassle-free down the line.   

There are a number of different construction payment terms. Typically, construction payments are due 30 days after an invoice. The flow of who gets paid when and whether or not a retainage is used are all up to the builder. Here are a couple items to consider:

• Prepayment: Prepayment is required so contractors can secure materials, equipment and a crew. A typical prepayment runs about 20-33% of the job. 
• Net 10, 30 and 60: A net payment means payment is due 10, 30 or 60 days from the date of the invoice.
• Pay-when-paid: This is a common clause in a contract that means the subs on the job will get paid when the homeowner pays the general contractor.
• Retainage: When a general contractor withholds a percentage of a subcontractors payment until the job is finished.

The most common type of construction payment is a net payment, meaning the invoice is due a set amount of days from the issue date. For longer projects, it’s typical to pay an upfront deposit and then to pay the contractor monthly until the job is finished.    

The most efficient way to manage construction payments is by using a construction payment software such as Buildertrend Payment. Why? Because it takes the awkwardness out of asking for money. A written construction contract should clearly state the expected payment schedule. Once you have that contract in place, your clients will pay all invoices via email. No emails or phone calls begging to get paid.

The goal of a construction project plan is to support the efforts of a project so it’s completed on time and on budget. This in turn supports the satisfaction of the homebuyer and the profitability of the project.

Roles and responsibilities should be finalized during the project planning phase of a planning process. A project manager may start to contact different stakeholders early at the project initiation phase to gather an idea of who is available to claim different areas of the project.

Construction planning is important because it serves as a strategic plan for all stakeholders to work from during a construction process. It identifies expectations, goals and milestones as well as tasks that need to be completed before other work can begin.

It’s best to manage a construction project through organization and attention to detail. Start with a comprehensive construction project plan. Double check as many details as you can before beginning physical construction. Document everything in your construction project management software for accuracy and ease of access. 

Construction project management involves defining, organizing and carrying out all stages of a construction project. It involves input from internal and external stakeholders. A construction project manager is responsible for all aspects of project management planning, execution and review.

The biggest challenge of a project manager is keeping track of all the details of a construction project. Timelines shift, supplies are delayed, change orders happen. A project manager must prepare for and resolve challenges quickly to keep projects on budget and clients satisfied. Other common challenges include disputed contracts, communication errors, delays and documentation issues.

A construction takeoff is just part of the bidding process. A takeoff uses the blueprints to draft a detailed list of materials and costs for the project. Once this is complete, the estimating can begin. An estimate is an extensive process that determines the overall cost of the project beyond just material quantity and prices.

Contractors and subcontractors are the main people involved in performing a takeoff because they have the experience to determine materials and amounts. Sometimes a contractor may work with an estimator who will take the material quantities and fill in the estimated material prices. 

A construction takeoff is a detailed listing of material amounts and costs. All materials — including raw and manufactured fixtures — must be tallied for a successful construction takeoff.

You know if your lead generation efforts are successful if you’re converting your leads into paying clients. Try to document how you acquired your leads – social media, referral, email, etc. – so you can see which method is most successful for your business.

Generating leads can take anywhere from a few weeks to months. It depends on how much time and attention you give to lead generation. It takes about six to nine months after implementing a lead strategy to start seeing solid results.

Yes, you can outsource lead generation efforts and bring in an external company to help with driving leads to your sales team. Professional lead generation companies focus on finding construction leads every single day.

No. We want you to leverage our influence to win more jobs and grow your business – which is why we’re happy to give you the promo kit free of charge.

Buildertrend gives you the tools you need to give your clients and subs a great experience. Don’t keep that special advantage over your competitors a secret – use it to win more jobs.

• A digital badge to share on your website, social media, emails and marketing materials
• Simple guidelines on how and where to use your badge
• Informational flyers to give your clients and subs
• Social media graphics to share on your channels

If you’re interested in sharing your success story with Buildertrend, we’d love to partner with you! Reach out to marketingteam@buildertrend.com and we’ll be in touch

Calculating a construction contingency involves estimating potential risks and setting aside funds to cover unexpected costs during a project. A simple approach is to use a percentage of the total project budget, typically 5–10%, depending on project complexity, location and risk factors.

Basic formula: Construction contingency = Estimated project costs × Contingency percentage + known high-cost risks

For example, if your project budget is $400,000 and you choose a 7% contingency with $10,000 set aside for likely material delays, your contingency fund would be:

$400,000 × 7% = $28,000

$28,000 + $10,000 = $38,000 total contingency

Using this method helps ensure your budget accounts for unforeseen expenses, protects your margins and keeps your project on track without surprises.

Many residential projects use anywhere from 5% to 10% of the total estimated project cost for their construction contingencies.

A contingency is an additional fee or percentage tacked onto a project to help mitigate unforeseen financial risks. An allowance is a preset amount given to clients to provide flexibility in the selections process.

Allocations for contingencies will vary depending on the project and the level of risk involved. Some risk factors to consider when deciding on the percentage are site conditions, size of the project and expected timeline.

A construction contingency should be used when unexpected delays or expenses occur during a construction project. It’s used to cover the additional costs or to adjust the timeline.

A contingency can cover a range of unexpected costs during a construction project. Some examples are unforeseen site conditions, changes in project scope, unplanned repairs, delays in timeline and regulation changes such as building codes or zoning requirements.

When you don’t have a contingency in place, delays or changes to the project can lead to significant financial damage and timeline disruptions. Even if you’re an expert planner, a lot can happen during a project. A contingency is a smart way to manage that risk.

A construction budget commonly includes the direct costs of a project. To get an even clearer picture of profitability, include indirect costs using job costing.

Planning a construction budget should involve internal and external stakeholders. Include information from suppliers, subcontractors, market experts and project managers to ensure your initial estimate is as close to a final construction budget as possible, reducing the likelihood for change orders in the building process.

Construction budgeting benefits both home builders and home buyers. Home builders can use accurate budgets to ensure cash flow can cover expenses at any given time. Home buyers are able to manage their finances to cover payment installments based on contract needs.

Construction budgets are best managed using construction company software with a dedicated project financials toolkit. Must-haves include features for billing and purchase orders, budgeting, estimating, bidding, invoicing and reporting. Additional features can include job planning and management tools, like digital measuring, which can add accuracy to a construction budget. 

A change order is a formal document that outlines changes to a construction project’s scope of work, schedule or budget. On the other hand, a construction change directive is an order issued by the owner or architect that requires a change in the work without specifying the change’s details. The contractor is responsible for proposing the scope of the change and the cost, which the owner must then approve before the additional work can proceed.

While completely avoiding construction change orders may not be possible, several strategies can help minimize their occurrence. These include having a clear and detailed construction contract, providing comprehensive and accurate project specifications, conducting thorough job site inspections, and maintaining open communication with all stakeholders throughout the construction process. Additionally, anticipating potential changes and incorporating construction contingency plans into the project budget can help reduce the impact of any changes that do occur.

Change orders are standard in the construction industry. It’s rare for a construction project to go through without any scope changes or modifications. The frequency and magnitude of change orders can vary depending on the project’s complexity, unforeseen site conditions, design changes, or client requests.

Advanced billing: This type of billing in construction is completed before the project even starts. It’s usually in the form of a lump sum payment. With this method, there’s a lot of trust put into the parties responsible for working on the job. It can be risky because the project can run over budget. This type is ideal for parties who are familiar with each other and have a good long-standing relationship.

Arrears billing: This construction billing method is done at the end of the project. It’s also sent in a lump sum once the final product is approved. This type can be risky for the builder because they can end up paying out-of-pocket for materials and labor during the project. Arrears billing would be an ideal choice for businesses that are looking to form relationships and trust with new clients, and who also have a strong cash flow already.

Progress billing: Billing is done incrementally throughout the project when using construction progress billing. It’s more complicated than the other two types, but it can be beneficial. It allows for the builder to get paid at regular intervals which creates less out-of-pocket costs throughout. With progress billing, the contractor needs to create an agreement with the client for points of payment during the project. This is favored by clients because it incentivizes each milestone to be hit in a timely fashion.

The main difference between invoicing and billing is which party is looking at the document. An invoice is what the contractor sees and sends to the client to be paid. When the client receives the document, it would be considered a bill to them because they’re required to pay it.

Progress billing is when the payments are done at certain points throughout the project. The contractor and client will agree on certain points in the project where they will pay. So once certain milestones are hit, the client will pay what they owe at that point.

To charge for a construction project, you’ll send an invoice to the client with the amount they’re required to pay. The document can list each item or service that the client is paying for. Once they receive the invoice, they can pay the builder the owed amount.

Look at the processes your business follows for every project. Consider the tasks you repeat or that could be streamlined. Once you have these tasks, consider what organizational method will be best for moving the jobs along. Some examples are flowcharts, forms and checklists. Many tasks may use a combination of two methods. A construction management software will be your best friend when it comes to creating a construction workflow.

The key elements of a workflow in the construction industry include identifying, assigning and detailing each task then choosing the best format to share it with your crew members. You want to describe each step of the project as well as key milestones. Following a step-by-step approach to workflow will help your clients clearly see the work progressing.

A measure of an effective workflow is the project is on time and on budget and all members of the team are in sync with communication. Don’t be too aggressive with your timeline or you’ll create worker burnout and discouragement when deadlines are missed. Be realistic and build in some cushion time for errors. After a project is completed, talk with your crew on what could go better next time and adjust the workflow accordingly.

The project manager is responsible for planning and executing the workflow. A well-done workflow should move from one job to the next and one crew member to the next until the project is completed. If designed well, once a workflow is set into motion, it should move through the checklists seamlessly. A project manager should oversee projects, check project data and metrics, and step in to manage the team when issues arise.

When it’s necessary to optimize a time-consuming project, attention needs to be focused on each step in the workflow management process. Consider how the change affects the scope of work, the assigned tasks, the schedule and the goals. Some possible changes include adjustments to the design, poor workmanship, financial issues and legal issues. These adjustments can be time-consuming and can upset every step of the workflow, and it’s already a complex process. Look at the larger scope and then get back into the nitty gritty of checklists and schedules because chances are it’s all been affected.  

The very first and most popular option for solving claims is negotiation between parties. If unsuccessful, it might be necessary for a third-party mediator, or a lawyer, to step in to try and help reach an agreement. If both of these methods are unsuccessful, then the dispute goes to an unbiased party to make the final decision. This last stage is referred to as arbitration.

Some possible legal implications of construction claims are negligence (not meeting professional standards), breach of contract (not following language in contract), breach of warranty (warranty not followed) and fraud (including false statements or advertisements dealing with the quality of your construction).

If you received a construction claim, be proactive in notifying everyone involved in the claim; this includes all workers and your insurance company. Then, collect necessary documents that’ll help back up your case – it’s a great idea to save all documentation relating to a project. Don’t put anything in writing. It’s best not to send an email or put thoughts into a text message that may be used against you later. Finally, based on the nature of the claim, assess whether or not to bring in an attorney before responding. 

A few examples of construction overhead expenses include rent, advertising, accounting fees, payroll, insurance, utilities, materials, legal fees and vehicles.

10% is the typical overhead percentage, but this can vary depending on the size of the project. A larger project would warrant a higher overhead percentage.

The average profit margin in construction is typically 6%. However, you should aim for a 10% profit margin to ensure your business stays profitable and you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket for expenses.

To forecast a construction budget, you analyze your available data to predict project costs. It’s important to take all available job data plus market research into account when forecasting.

The different construction forecasting methods are cash flow, materials and job costing. It’s essential to take all three methods into account to get the most accurate construction forecast.

Cash flow forecasting in construction means predicting the funds that’ll be moving in and out of your business over a period of time. This is a tedious process where you measure how much you’ll pay subs and for materials to get a clearer view of your profits.

Forecasting is an important process in construction because it’s essentially planning ahead for project costs and making smart business decisions based on real data. The success of your business is directly tied to being in-the-know on the economic ups and downs, market trends, material delays and labor shortages. Information is power in the construction business.

Improve your construction material management by conducting a forecast, ordering accurate amounts and scheduling products to arrive exactly when you need them. Avoid storing or wasting materials whenever possible.

Minimize the waste of construction materials with a detailed forecast of the exact count of supplies needed for each job. Planning costs and materials on an accurate estimate is the best way to reduce waste.

Construction material management directly impacts a project’s budget because the less material used on a project the less it costs you. Overspending happens when the product gets delayed or you have a material surplus. Double and triple check that you’re ordering the correct product – making mistakes also impacts the budget.  

Sustainability plays a significant role in construction material management. If you order too much, the wrong product gets delivered or it gets damaged in handling – everything gets tossed into the landfill. Avoid this with forecasting, knowing your inventory and aligning the delivery and project schedules.

To get an accurate picture of contractor cash flow, first identify and track the timing of when cash is entering your business versus when it’s going out. Your net cash flow is what remains. Generally, increases in net cash flow are a positive indicator of financial stability. But remember, cash flow isn’t the only factor of a construction company’s financial health. Also factor in profitability, liquidity, debt levels and overall stability.

Start by building a cash reserve. In the same way you might build an emergency fund to cover personal finances, construction companies can use a cash reserve to help cover unexpected expenses. With this as a safety net, you can then help improve cash flow by:

• Setting clear payment processes
  • Offering online payment processing to get paid faster
  • Accurately forecasting and budgeting for project costs
  • Monitoring and controlling expenses

Online payments help reduce the time construction companies spend waiting for payment. As inflows of cash are received, cash reserves can grow faster. This helps you accommodate your own payable bills more quickly and protects cash flow from being depleted.

A construction company may experience negative cash flow if it’s spending more money than it’s bringing in. This scenario can make it difficult for a business to pay its bills, which could lead to late payments and loss of clients, loss of subcontractors and vendors and loss of employees. If the business has any loans or additional financing, negative cash flow can cause banking defaults and penalties. Long-term negative cash flow can lead to a serious financial crisis for a business.

Use construction company software to create a cash flow forecast estimating future cash inflows and outflows. Identify any potential times of risk and work to adjust those expenses until you can comfortably cover the costs. Make sure to update your data regularly, as construction timelines and contingencies may affect initial forecasts.

Construction equipment tracking provides the ability to see where your assets are at any given time. It typically uses GPS tracking to provide the specific location for each piece of machinery.

GPS technology is precise and can typically track within a 100-foot radius. Its accuracy is vital in construction due to the dynamic job sites.

You can record pretty much any information on construction equipment that you want. This can include the name, age, upcoming maintenance and warranties.

Any type of construction equipment can be tracked through a system. Typically, bigger equipment like heavy machinery is a priority since it carries the highest costs.

Hardwired GPS can take installers between 30-45 minutes. If you’re using construction equipment tracking software, you will need time to train your team on the system, which can take several days to implement successfully.

Material management systems in construction refer to the processes and tools used to efficiently plan, procure, store, distribute and track materials needed for construction projects. These systems help to ensure that materials are available at the right place and time, reduce waste and improve project productivity and profitability. Examples of material management systems include inventory management software, barcode scanning tools and automated material handling equipment.

The best way to track materials on a construction site is to use a material tracking software or app that allows you to input data such as material type, quantity, location and usage. It’s important to have a system in place to ensure that materials are being used efficiently and effectively.

As a supplier partner with Buildertrend Purchasing, you’re able to market your brand and sell products to over 30,000 home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors. Capture more customer interest, increase brand loyalty and increase overall sales to bring in more revenue.

The best builders actively work with their clients throughout the construction process to ensure the building project follows the specifications and results in their dream home. That means professional builders need to have excellent communication skills on top of being a good leader for their construction workers.

To be a better builder, you can invest in software like Buildertrend to manage subcontractors and everything going on at the job site while keeping up communication with your clients.

Construction marketing efforts benefit business owners by increasing awareness of your construction company and attracting potential customers. Social media marketing and local SEO can be especially effective at driving qualified leads from the target audience in your area.

To create a construction marketing plan, you need to set an objective, analyze your current position and the market and create a relevant strategy within your budget. There are many different ways to market your construction services, so your digital marketing campaign should play to your strengths while downplaying weaknesses.

The key to handling objections or concerns from potential clients during sales is problem-solving. Listen to their concerns and be sure you’re understanding exactly what they need before giving a possible solution. Try collaborating with your potential client on a compromise, but always stand firm in your nonnegotiables. You’re the expert here, so don’t be afraid to show off your past successes if the client is in need of reassurance.

In the competitive construction environment, you can stand out in the market by delivering consistent quality, prioritizing customer service from beginning to end, developing a strong brand identity and specializing in a niche where you can develop expertise. Identify your strengths and capitalize on them. Potential clients will take notice.

Because construction projects are often large investments and run long-term, creating strong relationships with clients is essential for success. By listening to and addressing the needs of your clients, you’ll ensure they feel seen and have a good experience. Customer loyalty and a positive business reputation mean everything in construction.

The critical path is the sequence of activities that must be completed to make sure a project is finished on time. To identify the critical path, you’ll analyze the sequence of tasks, their duration and any dependencies between them. By identifying which tasks are most important to complete, your team can prioritize tasks to ensure the project stays on schedule.

In critical path analysis, the terms “float” and “slack” refer to the amount of time that a particular activity can be put off without causing a delay to the overall project completion date. Schedule tasks with more float are more flexible and can be delayed without affecting the project schedule, while tasks with less float are more critical and must be completed on time to avoid delaying the project.

Yes, a project can have multiple critical paths. This can happen when there are multiple paths that have the same amount of total float, and that means they each have the potential to delay the project’s completion if any activity on any of those paths is delayed.

Yes, the critical path can change during a construction project due to a variety of reasons, such as unexpected delays, changes in scope or changes in resource availability. Also, if a schedule task on the noncritical path is completed earlier than expected, it may create more float on the critical path, and another path that was previously noncritical may become critical.

Managing a critical path in construction can be challenging. These challenges can include unforeseen delays, resource constraints, scope changes, lack of communication and limited flexibility. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to have a strong project plan and to regularly manage the progress throughout the project.

Construction companies can keep up with industry trends by performing regular market research, attending industry conferences and events, participating in industry associations and monitoring competitors – all to discover the latest trends and newest technologies in the business.

Some tools and resources to stay up to date on industry trends include trade publications, professional associations, continuing education, industry influencers and market reports.

Construction companies can stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology trends by promoting a culture of innovation. This includes following industry influencers and researching what they’re posting to their channels, investing in technology training, engaging with professional associations and attending construction conferences.

Construction companies can identify which trends are most relevant to their business by understanding their company goals and deciding where technology might help achieve these goals. After this, they should only spend time with technology innovations that align with their needs and objectives.

Sustainability can be integrated into the construction supply chain by sourcing sustainable supplies and materials, implementing green building practices and promoting recycling and waste reduction throughout the construction process.

Read more about how Buildertrend specifically supports sustainable construction companies in this case study.

Risk management can be integrated into construction supply chains by developing contingency plans, conducting thorough due diligence when selecting suppliers, implementing quality control processes and leveraging technology solutions to enhance visibility and accountability.

Construction taxes can be deductible from federal income tax as a business expense. However, this is dependent on the specific circumstances of the construction project and the tax laws in the state where the project is located.

Not paying construction taxes can lead to legal action, fines and penalties. In some cases, your tax authority may place a lien on your property. This can result in the property’s sale to cover the outstanding taxes.

If construction taxes are overpaid, the overpayment can be refunded by the tax authority. The process for receiving a refund typically involves submitting a claim for refund and providing documentation to support the claim, although this may vary by jurisdiction.

Construction taxes are generally mandatory government fees. In some cases, a construction company may qualify for a tax exemption or tax credit, based on project type or jurisdiction. An example of this may include a tax deduction for projects meeting certain energy efficiency standards.

The length of the preconstruction phase can vary from a few weeks to a few months based on your project’s size and complexity. Some factors that weigh into the timeline are project scope, design changes, permitting process and coordination/communication with project stakeholders.

The preconstruction phase involves collaboration with the client, architect, engineer, construction manager, subcontractors, suppliers and local government agencies. Everyone performs their separate tasks in preparing the project to break ground.

During preconstruction, contractors and suppliers can be selected through bidding, prequalification or negotiation. They either go through a competitive bidding process, or the contractor invites prequalified contractors or suppliers to submit bids for the project and negotiations follow. 

Many factors can influence labor costs in construction, including the skill level and experience of each worker, location of the project, project complexity, safety requirements, market conditions and material costs. Understanding these factors can help builders make informed decisions about resource allocation and scheduling to control labor costs.

Yes, there are unexpected costs associated with construction labor that may arise during a project. Unexpected costs can include overtime hours, delays, safety incidents, weather-related delays and unforeseen site conditions. It’s important to plan for these by building contingencies into the budget.

When looking for labor cost management software, businesses should consider several factors to ensure it meets their needs. Some key factors include integration with accounting software, customization, reporting and analytics, time tracking, user-friendly interface and mobile access.

It’s important to manage construction risks to minimize potential financial losses, project delays and quality issues. This also helps ensure successful project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Construction businesses can identify risks by conducting comprehensive project assessments, analyzing historical data, consulting with industry experts and leveraging construction company software’s project management and budgeting features.

Construction businesses take a “risk management 101” approach by implementing proactive risk mitigation strategies, regularly monitoring project progress, maintaining open communication channels and adapting strategies throughout a construction project.

Before creating a construction contract, home builders should take the time to thoroughly review the project scope and all associated costs and specifications. This includes ensuring that each party knows exactly what is required of them, such as materials, labor, and payment terms. Additionally, home builders should explicitly articulate any contingencies or potential changes that could occur during the course of the project.

Home builders may find it beneficial to consult with a lawyer when creating a construction contract. A lawyer can provide valuable guidance and expertise on the legalities of contracts and help to ensure that relevant terms and conditions are effectively included.

Additionally, having an attorney review the document before signing can protect home builders from any unexpected liabilities, such as unseen issues with material suppliers or disputes over payment. Taking the time to properly craft a contract can help to avoid costly disputes and delays throughout the project, saving both parties from unnecessary stress and frustration.

Home builders should take care to avoid common mistakes when it comes to construction contracts, such as failure to include adequate contingencies, incomplete description of services or materials and inadequate budget estimates.

Failure to include contingencies in a contract can put a home builder at risk for unexpected changes that could lead to additional costs or delays.

Construction budgeting software is technology used to track your finances in real time from anywhere. This process typically includes tracking your estimated costs, revised costs, total costs and outstanding costs throughout the job.

Construction budget software is important for builders to modernize the way they run financial processes. Although a manual process may be working, there are likely mistakes being made and dollars being lost. By using technology to budget in construction, you’ll be able to reduce costly errors and keep jobs on track.

To create a construction company budget, start by estimating for necessary costs such as labor, equipment, permits and other timeline-related expenses. Then, compare these estimates with your company’s financial resources to set realistic spending limits. Some financial resources to consider may include cash flow and reserves, available assets, debts and more.

A construction budget can typically be segmented by direct costs, indirect costs and contingency funds. Direct costs include expenses such as construction worker wages or lumber. Indirect costs may include office rent or utility costs. Contingency funds are typically set aside from the onset to help cover unforeseen expenses or changes in project scope. Construction budget control software can help you set up, estimate and manage actuals of these three categories.

Tracking construction budgets involves regularly monitoring expenses, making comparisons to budgeted estimates and adjusting when necessary. It’s important to leverage construction budget tracking software to help reduce error and minimize risk of overruns. When leveraged correctly, this can help ensure profitable project completions, satisfied clients and financially-stable business operations.

When Xero’s accounting software and Buildertrend’s construction management software come together, you can manage more than just bookkeeping. This seamless integration enables two-way sync, facilitating the transfer of information between the platforms. Job-specific expenses recorded in Xero can be effortlessly sent to your Buildertrend budget, enhancing job costing accuracy and eliminating the need for duplicate data entry. As a result, all your crucial information is accurate and conveniently located in one place.

Instead of focusing on the industry, the key consideration lies in understanding your unique business requirements. Start by assessing which version suits the size of your business and the number of employees who require access. This serves as an excellent starting point for making the decision.

For small to mid-sized construction companies, we highly recommend the popular Growing plan. This plan is great for smaller businesses that are continuing to grow. However, even if you opt for the Growing plan, you have flexibility and can easily upgrade to the next version as your business expands. This ensures scalability and accommodates your company’s needs.

Yes, there is two-way sync for certain information. Some data including contacts from jobs, invoices, subs, vendors and bills can transfer automatically from Buildertrend to Xero. Additionally, financial data comes back to Buildertrend from Xero.

Buildertrend does not link to the Chart of Accounts. Buildertrend’s Cost Codes are the equivalent of Xero Items or Products and Services.

Buildertrend has a list of recommended cost codes for use that can be imported into your account.

After becoming a Pro Xtra member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to time-saving business tools and money-saving benefits. Some of these benefits include: rewards each time you shop at The Home Depot; 20% off paints, strainers and primers; members-only offers; volume pricing and purchase tracking.

Gusto is a payroll platform that establishes a fixed payroll period per account upon creation. Buildertrend does not affect the payroll period but must adhere to Gusto’s. When integrated, a new filter will facilitate running in the correct period. If attempting to send a time shift outside the current one, Buildertrend will notify the user the shift cannot be sent.

Buildertrend’s integration with Gusto is available in all 50 states. It’s the same price whether you run payroll in one state or all 50.  

Yes, Gusto integrates with popular financial software including QuickBooks, Xero, plus time-tracking, expense software and more.

Yes. Overtime can be set up in Gusto by the employee wage type. Additionally, overtime needs to be set up in Buildertrend in the Time Clock settings. Once set up, overtime automatically calculates on the time shift data sent from Buildertrend.

High turnover rates can be costly for construction management. It can result in lost productivity, reduced quality of work, increased recruitment and training costs, reduced company culture and morale among remaining team members, and damage to the company’s reputation.

To calculate the employee turnover rate, a construction company needs to divide the number of employees who left the company during a specific period by the average number of employees during the same period, and then multiply the result by 100.

The ideal turnover rate for a construction company depends on various factors, including the industry, the type of projects and the company’s size. However, generally, an annual turnover rate of 10-15% is considered healthy.

Material delays can be caused by various factors:

• Manufacturing issues such as equipment malfunctions or quality control problems
• Transportation disruptions such as adverse weather conditions or customs delays
• Shortage of raw materials or components
• Unforeseen events such as natural disasters or political unrest
• Inaccurate forecasting and planning
• Quality control issues
• Capacity constraints.

Understanding these causes helps general contractors anticipate and address potential delays more effectively, mitigating their impact on project completion.

Assessing the impact of a material delay on your construction project delivery or production requires evaluating the criticality of the delayed material, its role in the overall process, the extension of time it will last and the available alternatives or workarounds. Review your project schedule, dependencies and the extent to which the delayed material affects key milestones. Consult with your project team or production managers to determine the potential delay damages and necessary adjustments and allocation of resources.

To mitigate material delays in the construction industry, businesses can adopt several strategies:

• Effective supply chain management
• Diversifying suppliers
• Accurate forecasting and inventory management
• Risk assessments and developing contingency plans
• Open communication
• Advanced ordering, scheduling, and tracking systems
• Regular supplier performance evaluation

By implementing these construction management measures, businesses can track material delivery, minimize project delays to meet completion dates, streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction.

When collecting information from leads in the home improvement industry, it’s important to gather their name, contact information (such as phone number and email address), location and details about their home improvement project, including budget, timeline and specific requirements.

You should follow up with home improvement leads promptly, ideally within a few hours of receiving their contact information. This can help establish trust with the customer and increase the likelihood that they’ll choose your business for their home improvement needs.

Paid online marketing can be a highly effective way to generate leads for your home improvement business, as it allows you to target your ideal customers and promote your services to a wider audience. You can use paid advertising on search engines, Google Business Profile, social media platforms, directories and email marketing.

To ensure high-quality leads, it’s important that home improvement contractors focus on targeting the right audience with clear and compelling ad copy. Additionally, developing a high-converting landing page, providing valuable content and following up promptly can help build trust with your new leads and increase the likelihood of converting them into new customers. By following these tips, you can generate leads that are more likely to convert into satisfied customers and help grow your business.

Construction efficiency can be measured using various key performance indicators (KPIs) such as schedule adherence, cost performance, resource utilization, labor productivity, rework rate and project cycle time. These metrics help assess the effectiveness and productivity of construction operations.

Some common challenges to achieving construction efficiency include inadequate planning processes and coordination, poor project management, inefficient resource allocation, lack of skilled labor, unexpected changes or delays, inadequate communication among project stakeholders, and insufficient utilization of construction software, new technologies and automation.

Construction inefficiencies introduce several risks to projects and organizations. These risks include cost overruns, schedule delays, reduced profitability, reputation damage, legal and contractual issues, safety risks, decreased productivity, quality control compromises and increased disruptions within the project team. These issues can have financial, operational and reputational consequences, impacting the success of construction projects.

Change orders can be subject to review and approval processes. If the proposed change is deemed unnecessary, unreasonable or a breach of contract, it may be rejected. Rejections should be communicated in a timely manner, and alternative solutions or negotiations may be explored to address the underlying issues.

To select suitable subcontract workers, evaluate their expertise, experience, qualifications and track record. Consider a subcontractor’s work, their pricing, client references, financial stability and adherence to safety standards and quality control. Obtain multiple bids, conduct interviews and assess their capabilities to ensure they align with your project requirements.

A good subcontractor agreement should outline the project scope, deliverables, timelines, payment terms, confidentiality clauses, insurance requirements, dispute resolution mechanisms and any other pertinent terms and conditions. It’s essential to clearly define roles, responsibilities and expectations to avoid misunderstandings and legal issues.

Address conflicts or disputes with construction subcontractors or other stakeholders promptly through open and honest communication. Refer to progress reports, subcontractor agreements or contract documents to identify dispute resolution mechanisms, such as mediation or arbitration. Maintain detailed records of any disputes, discussions or resolutions for future reference.

Construction companies are addressing the labor shortage by reevaluating wage and benefit programs, implementing training and apprenticeship programs to develop skilled workers, partnering with staffing agencies to fill positions and utilizing technology and automation to improve productivity and reduce reliance on manual labor.

During a construction labor shortage, contractors may face delays related to having fewer available workers than the project needs. These delays can lead to increased project budgets as the cost of materials and supplies rise, alongside necessary overtime and other labor costs needed to meet project timelines.

Factors such as an aging workforce, recruitment challenges, industry perception and wage concerns may lengthen the construction labor shortage in the future. As a result, construction companies will likely need to continue to look at strategies to become more efficient, such as implementing construction company software from Buildertrend.

Construction workforce management promotes job site safety by ensuring the right workers and equipment are available when needed, facilitating efficient communication for immediate issue resolution and helping mitigate potential safety risks.

Effective workforce management in construction helps optimize resource allocation – including your administrative and construction teams. This helps offset labor shortages by reducing the number of workers needed at a job site. Specifically, efficient scheduling and task management can help improve poor performance and maximize productivity using your available workforce.  

Common construction workforce management challenges include difficulty in tracking and managing a large and diverse workforce, employee turnover, coordinating schedules and tasks across multiple projects, and ensuring effective communication and collaboration among team members and subcontractors. These challenges can be addressed with a proven workforce management software like Buildertrend.

Construction jobs offer unique bookkeeping and accounting challenges since the majority of work is decentralized and tied up in multiple individual projects. These projects involve long-term construction contracts that drag out the accounting process, and during this timeframe costs tend to change.

The basic principles of construction accounting include accurate job costing, which requires you to track materials, payroll and other expenses, revenue recognition, which tracks payments received by the construction company, and different types of reports to document your business operations.

To ensure timely payment from clients on construction projects, be sure to put the deadlines and payment details in your contract. It helps to invoice right away and offer easy online payment options. If the payment is late, be sure to follow up and have a late payment fee outlined in the contract.

To attract high-paying clients in the construction industry, you should have a strong portfolio that shows your best work. It’s also important to show you’re up with industry trends and offer options like green building and smart home features. Building relationships with architects and interior designers will help you access those high-end jobs that require these professionals. If you show you’re worth the money, high-end clients will invest in you.

The best way to price your construction services competitively is to do your market research and know your competitors’ rates and the average price range for similar services in your city. Clearly highlight your strongest features like quality craftsmanship, excellent customer service or specialized expertise.

The sync will flow one way to start, with data from HubSpot being sent directly to Buildertrend. Further iterations of this will include a two-way sync and keep data up to date between both systems.

Construction business owners, project managers and anybody involved in the sales process can benefit from this integration. These users have the flexibility to quickly access data from HubSpot in Buildertrend because the entire sales process now happens in the same spot where their job information is housed and managed.

Unidirectional. With this one-way sync, data will only be sent from Salesforce to Buildertrend. Future iterations of the integration will be bidirectional and keep data up to date between the two systems.

TBD

No. The data can take up to five minutes to sync from Salesforce to Buildertrend.

Financial management software is an online platform that’s designed to help businesses better manage their financial resources. This type of software helps users track income and expenses, create budgets, generate reports, analyze trends, forecast cash flow, manage payments and more.

Financial management software is an essential tool for any construction company that wants to track and monitor their financial resources. With expense and budget tracking combined into one software package, it can provide a comprehensive picture of your company’s finances.

Buildertrend Wallet is free to use. There are no fees, no account minimums, no interest and no credit checks.

All cashback rewards are available to claim at any time. Simply request a disbursement and you’ll receive the funds. No waiting until the end of the month like other digital wallets.

The limitations of construction APIs are specific to each use case. Some APIs, for example, limit the number of requests that can be made for a specific time frame. In other cases, different applications may restrict what data can be accessed through an API or integration. It’s important to understand the terms and conditions associated with the API you’re using. For custom APIs, your software provider may be able to help clarify any limitations.

Construction APIs can provide access to project details such as schedules, budgets, tasks and milestones. However, you can avoid the need to create these APIs by investing in industry-leading construction software with built-in project management capabilities. Other common APIs from a comprehensive construction software can include accounting, CRM, HR and home design applications.

Security is a component of protecting sensitive data when using APIs. Although API providers typically implement secure authentication measures, encryptions and role-based access controls, it’s important to review the security measures and practices of each API provider before enabling access.

When implementing artificial intelligence in the construction industry, there can be several challenges. First and foremost, the cost associated with obtaining an AI system is often a barrier to entry for many organizations. Free tools are available to get started, including ChatGPT.

Additionally, it can be difficult to find employees with specialized skills needed to develop and deploy AI solutions on a construction site. The trick to using AI chatbots, for instance, is inputting prompts and asking for the information you’re looking for. This requires training and firsthand knowledge of the project. Also, AI and machine learning algorithms can produce errors or become inefficient over time, leading to their accuracy being questioned. Finally, there are often regulatory and ethical issues related to implementing AI in construction, as it can make decisions without the oversight of a human supervisor. Here at Buildertrend, for instance, we have strict guidelines in place to ensure quality and to protect valuable company information. If your team is interested in getting started with AI, be sure to set in place best practices.

Implementing AI in construction requires many specialized skills, such as expertise in machine learning algorithms and programming languages. Construction professionals should also possess knowledge about the legal and ethical implications of using AI in their work. Finally, an understanding of the latest cybersecurity protocols is important to ensure that valuable data is protected from malicious actors.

The future of AI in construction looks bright. As technology continues to advance, it is expected that AI will continue to play an important role in the industry. It is predicted that AI will automate mundane tasks such as data entry and generate more accurate estimates for projects, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings. AI can help increase safety on construction sites, as it can help identify potential risks before they become problems. In the long term, AI is expected to enable the industry to make smarter decisions and use resources more efficiently, leading to better outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

Construction invoicing software is a helpful asset for businesses looking to save time and increase profits by simplifying their payment processes. This type of software allows a business to easily create, send and track invoices for construction projects. It’s a user-friendly online tool that also connects to your accounting software for accurate reconciliation.

Invoicing clients is crucial to running a successful construction business. By using construction invoice software, you’ll keep numbers accurate while simplifying workflows and improving organization.

Efficient processes: Save time by letting the software do the heavy lifting – all you have to do is sit back and get paid. You won’t even have to worry about chasing down checks or manually recording transactions. Everything is done for you.

Financial mistakes are a business’ worst nightmare. Construction invoice software helps alleviate the pains of accounting and reduces errors that result in costly consequences.

Online payments: Make life easier for everyone by allowing invoices to be managed online. Clients can choose their preferred payment method, and bookkeepers don’t have to waste time managing invoices by hand.

According to Buildertrend experts, the social media platform to focus on first is Instagram because it’s the most straightforward. Once you’ve mastered this, then move on to Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

Your posting frequency on social media depends on certain factors: audience, platform and content relevance. The major rules are to be consistent and remember quality over quantity. Adjust your posting schedule based on audience feedback and engagement to get that perfect balance between regularity and content quality.

Some ways to engage with your audience on social media are to post videos of you in the field, collaborate with other creators and ask questions or take polls. Being consistent, authentic and interested in your audience is the best start for building a loyal online community.

Measure the success of your construction email marketing campaigns by tracking key metrics like open rates, click-through rates and conversions. By analyzing this data, you can improve campaign performance and ROI.

The construction industry experiences unique challenges with email marketing. One is email list quality, which can sometimes include unqualified leads – leads not interested in moving forward in the building or renovation process. Other common challenges are email marketing compliance – including managing unsubscribes and spam complaints – and personalizing content for different segments. Construction software can help overcome these challenges by generating quality leads, creating compliant email techniques and managing personalized content volumes.

Keep your marketing campaigns running smoothly by proactively planning content, maintaining consistent sending schedules and templatizing content for quicker content development. 

A construction report typically includes information related to the progress of a construction project. Common elements in these reports include a project’s schedule, budget status, tasks completed and tasks to be completed, sales data and change order information.

Yes, construction reports can help with risk management. With reports, you’re able to identify risks quickly and take action to avoid them.

Common challenges that arise in construction reporting include inaccurate data, lack of data availability, data inconsistency and lack of collaboration among stakeholders.

CoConstruct is part of Buildertrend. Both platforms have combined to create a best-in-class software platform under the Buildertrend name.

Buildertrend is a unified construction management platform that empowers builders, remodelers and contractors to run their entire business in one place – from project management to advanced financials. With integrated tools for scheduling, budgeting and communication – plus AI-powered capabilities that help teams work smarter – Buildertrend brings everything together in a single, connected experience with enhanced performance, visibility and support.

CoConstruct is a project management software designed for home builders and remodelers. It provides a suite of tools to manage the entire construction process from budgeting to team collaboration.

CoConstruct and Buildertrend have combined to provide an evolving platform. With Buildertrend, you now get the best of both worlds with key features from both project management platforms.

No. CoConstruct is now a Buildertrend company, and the evolved platform is managed through Buildertrend. You can schedule a demo with the Buildertrend team to learn more about our expanded product and service offerings.

The process of submitting a draw request is to follow the schedule for submission, gather supporting documentation and complete necessary forms. Clear communication with the lender and an organized request results in timely payments.

The construction draw process typically involves the client, the contractor and the lender. If a third-party inspection is necessary, an inspector or architect is brought in to verify completion of milestones and to inspect the work for quality and accuracy.

Construction draws are based on the agreed-upon draw schedule. The schedule may follow a milestone or monthly payment plan. These progress payments reimburse the contractor for labor and materials.

To prevent challenges brought on by changes in the construction industry, you should stay informed on updates, invest in training, create a culture of learning and communicate with clients to understand their evolving needs and expectations. By proactively taking these steps, companies can prepare themselves for the challenges brought on by changes in the industry.

The need for affordable housing will drive cost-effective construction practices such as modular construction or prefabrication techniques. Smart technologies that enhance energy efficiency and provide savings for homeowners will also be an area of interest.

The most common limitation construction companies must overcome to keep up with industry trends is resistance to change. It’s important to create a companywide culture that’s open to evolving the business, learning new technologies and improving the craft. Other factors that come into play are the expenses of investing in training or software and a shortage of skilled workers.

Markup percentages are calculated by dividing profit by total costs and multiplying by 100.

(Desired Profit / (Total costs – profit)) x 100 = Markup

Markup percentages are set at the discretion of the contractor, meaning they can vary from project to project. These percentages can be negotiated with clients as a part of the contract agreement.

A contractor’s fee is different than a markup percentage. A markup typically covers overhead costs to help ensure profit. A contractor’s fee is the total amount charged for their services – which includes markups as well as labor and material costs, subcontractor fees, equipment expenses and more.

The time it takes to construct a retail building can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the building, site conditions and availability of labor and materials. Construction can take anywhere from several months to more than a year.

Yes, you can renovate an existing building for retail use. It can be cost-effective and more sustainable as well. However, it’s important to note that it can present challenges, such as expensive structural upgrades and obtaining necessary permits.

Start by defining the success criteria before the project begins. Having KPIs for construction teams to refer to ensures that everyone is aligned. Then throughout the project, you should monitor progress against those goals and evaluate the budget and schedule. You can measure success by goals achieved.

A SWOT analysis gives you insight about your target market. Once you’ve identified this, you can develop marketing strategies that highlight your strengths and relay messaging that speaks to your target audience. Informed marketing contributes to improved performance and success.

There’s no single right answer for how often a construction company should conduct a SWOT analysis. If your company or the market doesn’t experience significant change, an annual review is smart. If you have any big changes within your company, the market takes a significant shift or your competition intensifies, a SWOT analysis may be just what you need to remain competitive and make smarter decisions.

When conducting a construction SWOT analysis, consider internal factors such as the strengths and weaknesses of your business, plus external factors like threats from the market and competition or opportunities based on market trends and client demands.

When hiring subcontractors, there are several legal considerations to keep in mind, including contractual agreements, insurance and liability coverage, regulation compliance, employment law and tax obligations.

Managing and resolving subcontractor disputes and conflicts is important to ensuring that a construction project is completed successfully. To avoid disputes, focus on establishing open lines of communication and clear contracts to reference.

To handle changes in the project scope, first notify the subcontractors of any changes as soon as possible so they can adjust their work schedule. After that, you can review contract agreements and negotiate terms. It’s also important to document any changes to refer to if needed.

Cost saving in construction businesses refers to efforts and initiatives to reduce operational costs and increase profit margins. Common practices include investing in longer-lasting tools, purchasing building materials at better price points and investing in construction software to efficiently manage projects.

Examples of cost saving in a construction business include using software to automate processes and enable better construction project management, joining a group purchasing organization or adopting more sustainable construction practices.

Top factors considered when evaluating construction bids include cost, contractor qualifications, experience, proposed timeline and understanding of project requirements.

Construction bids should include detailed information including project scope, materials, labor costs and timeline.

Subcontractors can participate in a construction bidding process, either by bidding directly or as a part of a bid submitted by a general contractor. Depending on expertise, availability and pricing, a subcontractor may be selected over a general contractor in some instances.

The Buildertrend Boost is a comprehensive training package – and the ultimate game-changer for our customers. It’s all about helping you make the most of Buildertrend construction software and getting the best bang for your buck. We’ve got you covered with:

Setup manager

• Customized account setup and configuration

Dedicated account manager

• Goal-oriented success plans
• Personalized coaching
• Strategic business reviews
• Annual account health check-ins

We know learning a new system doesn’t happen overnight. But, with the Buildertrend Boost, any contractor can go from tech newbie to total pro, taking full advantage of the platform to supercharge their business operations. If you’re serious about improving your processes, the Buildertrend Boost is your secret weapon to learning our platform, making it work for your business and staying ahead in the industry. Together, let’s propel your business forward faster.

The Buildertrend Boost is valued at $100 a month. The Boost is a separate cost when choosing a monthly plan – but those who sign up for an annual plan get an even better offer: Buildertrend Boost is free for the entire year.

It’s common for accounting teams to accommodate construction change orders by revising invoices and modifying contracts based on change order specifications. This ensures accurate payment for the changed work.

Commonly required documents for construction accounts payable include invoices, purchase orders, receipts, lien waivers and signed contracts.

The time it takes a construction company to process accounts payable can vary depending on the company’s accounts payable process, invoice volume, payment terms and authorization workflows. It’s important to understand this process as you’re agreeing to payment terms to ensure each party is being paid accordingly.

Yes. Our sales management software works with all technology platforms and brands. You can access your projects from your desktop, tablet and mobile phone. View leads, send emails and get notifications from anywhere at any time – so you never miss the opportunity to land a sale.

Our sales tools make it easy for you to gather and track leads from initial inquiry to final sale. We can even help you link your website’s contact form to your Buildertrend account, so all potential client information is automatically saved. You can set up automated responses with your personalized company logo and receive notifications that allow you to respond quickly.

Yes. With our new integrations marketplace you can now connect to Outlook, iCal, DropBox and Google Suite.

Yes. The Schedule tool is versatile and can sync with your Google Calendar, iCal or Outlook. It also offers multiple view options including a Gantt chart, day-by-day and phases.

By giving your clients access to the Buildertrend Customer Portal, they’ll be kept in the loop throughout their job. The easiest way to create a great customer experience for your homeowners is to keep them informed and make them feel like they’re part of the process. The Customer Portal also provides convenience in the form of electronic signatures and online payments, so clients can keep jobs moving from the comfort of home.

Yes. From their desktop computer or mobile phone, your clients can access the Customer Portal and easily send messages directly to your team. They also have the ability to leave quick comments on files, photos, selections and other features if they have questions.

Yes. You have total control over what your clients, subs and team members can see and edit within their accounts.

Buildertrend’s financial software can help any construction business – large or small – manage their budget and cash flow down to the last penny. Whether you’re a residential builder, commercial or specialty contractor or remodeler, Buildertrend can help you grow and strengthen your profits.

Yes. Buildertrend integrates with many commonly used financial programs, like QuickBooks and Xero. You won’t have to start over or spend time transferring information from one platform to another. You can also upload your financial data from Excel spreadsheets directly into Buildertrend.

Buildertrend’s financial tools save you money in many ways. It keeps you from eating un-invoiced costs, eliminates double entry, and helps you stay on budget and provides reports that help grow your bottom line.

A cashback is a reimbursement from a supplier to a customer for part of the purchase price of a product following the sale, rather than at the time of sale, like a standard coupon or discount.

An SOV serves as a financial roadmap. It provides a detailed breakdown of completed work, allowing for accurate invoicing and payment. Combined with resources such as online payment processing, it can also help ensure you’re paid faster.

An SOV provides project management with a comprehensive breakdown of a project’s costs. This helps support budget tracking, progress monitoring and financial management as defined by a construction contract. By consulting an SOV, project managers can allocate resources, maintain financial transparency with clients and make informed decisions to keep a project on track.

If a schedule of values is disputed, builders and clients may compare it to the project contract for accuracy. If disputes persist, both parties should pursue resolution based on the contract.

An SOV is a detailed financial document used for progress tracking and payment management during construction. A construction estimate provides an initial approximate cost for the entire project before work begins.

Choosing the right construction billing methods is crucial for accurate project management, financial transactions, transparent invoicing, effective cash flow management, compliance with regulations, higher profit margins and client satisfaction. Proper billing methods facilitate project control and efficient record-keeping and auditing processes. They contribute to a positive reputation, client trust and business growth.

First, make sure that the scope of work is clearly defined between you and the client. This can minimize the risk of design changes later. Then ensure that your estimate has contingencies built in to cover any unexpected costs that may arise. You should also establish a solid change order process to account for design changes.

Underestimating the cost of a remodeling project can be a significant problem that leads to budget overruns. If this happens, review the estimate and see where the error occurred, then update the estimate to reflect any changes. And most importantly, communicate those change with your client.

Yes, you can provide multiple estimates to the client. This approach allows the homeowner to choose from different options based on their budget and preferences. When providing multiple options, it’s important to clearly outline the differences and give a detailed breakdown of each option.

A lien waiver in construction can be thought of as a receipt. It’s a legal document that shows proof of payment for materials, labor or services on a project and protects homeowners and contractors from legal problems.

A lien waiver is used to release the right to file a mechanics lien on a property for nonpayment. The document is signed by contractors, subcontractors and homeowners to acknowledge payment amount and date.

There are four main types of lien waivers: conditional lien waivers on progress payment, unconditional lien waivers on progress payment, conditional lien waivers on final payment and unconditional lien waivers on final payment. Conditional lien waivers are contingent upon receiving payment while unconditional waivers are effective once signed. Progress payments happen at milestones throughout the project, and final payments occur once the project is completed.

Finding and managing subcontractors can be challenging, but it’s a crucial aspect of a successful project. Some ways to find subcontractors include asking for referrals from colleagues and searching online job boards. Once you have chosen subcontractors, it’s important to negotiate contracts and set clear expectations. Use construction management software to share important details about the project and send payments easily.

Creating a home remodeling timeline requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including the scope of work, available resources and budget constraints. It’s important to identify all the tasks involved and the time they’ll require. Other considerations include potential project delays and availability of subcontractors.

Minimizing disruptions requires effective planning and communication. Some ways to do this include creating a detailed project plan, communicating regularly to keep everyone informed about project progress and potential issues and setting clear expectations.

A construction project manager is a professional who oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of entire projects from start to finish. They manage budgets, timelines and resources, and they ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. The exact job description of a construction project manager will differ depending on different project variables.

A project manager brings expertise, organization, and efficiency to your construction process. They help avoid costly mistakes, manage risks, maintain compliance with regulations, and ensure effective communication between all stakeholders. Project managers help to maintain onsite safety compliance, quality control, risk management, project cost estimates, planning, coordination, construction document control, transparency and so much more.

This depends on the size and complexity of your project. General contractors often manage both the construction and project management aspects of the project. For larger and more complex projects, it’s recommended to hire a dedicated project manager who can oversee the construction team, contractors, and subcontractors.

General contractors may have years of experience in construction work, while dedicated project managers bring specialized project management services, certifications, and work experience. Consider the specific needs of your project and whether you need someone with a broader skill set or a specialized focus.

Construction companies can track progress in new projects using various task management
tools and methods, such as construction management software, project management software,
Gantt charts, critical path method (CPM), daily/weekly reports, templates and site visits.

Addressing delays in construction progress is crucial to reducing overruns and bottlenecks and keeping the entire project on track. Delays should be promptly communicated to the project manager and stakeholders. A plan should be put in place to identify the causes of delays, assess their impact, and implement corrective actions to get the project deliverables back on track.

Progress tracking should be done regularly in the construction industry, typically on a daily or weekly basis, depending on the size and complexity of the overall project. More frequent tracking is essential during critical phases.

Construction progress reports should include project budgets, milestones, completed tasks, ongoing activities, delays, issues encountered, resources allocated, and any changes made to the project plan.

The key phases of construction project management typically include initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and control, and project closure.

A construction project manager is responsible for overseeing the entire construction project scope. Their role involves planning project timelines, coordinating tasks, managing sustainability, ensuring quality control, and fostering effective communication with clients and stakeholders.

Project managers are responsible for developing a comprehensive construction plan and identifying risks, challenges, and changes in project scope. Their role also includes tasks like overseeing the selection and negotiation of contracts with subcontractors, general contractors and vendors and managing the procurement of materials and services.

Project progress is tracked through regular onsite inspections, status reports and project
management software. Key performance indicators (KPIs) are often used to measure progress
against the project plan.

By combining these methods and tools, project managers in the construction industry can
effectively monitor progress in the project life cycle, identify potential issues early on and make
informed decisions to streamline the construction process and eliminate issues such as scope
creep.

Open book pricing promotes trust and transparency between the contractor and the client. It shares the costs openly, allowing the client to review them. It also enables clients to make informed decisions on materials, suppliers and project scope to ensure the project stays within their budget.

Risk is managed in open book pricing by providing a clear and detailed contract that minimizes misunderstandings and disputes. The clients can regularly monitor the project and work with the builder to navigate challenges and ensure its success.

Yes, there are challenges with open book pricing. One is tracking the cost effectively. Construction projects involve many variables and unforeseen circumstances, making it challenging to predict and control expenses. Open book pricing also requires a high level of transparency and demands significant communication between the builder and client.

Yes, it’s possible to combine open book pricing and fixed pricing for a project. In this scenario, the builder can provide the client with a fixed price for the overall project while still maintaining transparency through open book pricing. This way, the client has a clear understanding of the total cost, but they still have the breakdown of expenses, including materials and labor. It’s the best of both worlds.

A change order in construction refers to any modifications made to the scope of work outlined in the original contract. Since change orders shift the budget and timeline, they must be documented, tracked and approved by all parties.

Change orders are an inevitable issue for most construction projects, and when not managed properly, they’ll derail your finances.

A good change order software updates your financials in real time, which means it tracks cost changes on approved change orders and adjusts the remaining budget. Project managers can make the most informed decisions when financials are automatically updated.

For example, if during the course of the project a client decides to upgrade from granite countertops to quartzite, a change order would be submitted. Using a software program makes it easier to keep everyone updated on project changes. On the flip side, doing it by hand leaves a paper trail to follow with the cost difference for the countertops and labor required for possible removal and reinstallation. Then, it’s on you to collect payment instead of receiving reimbursement right in your project management software.

Punch lists are typically executed before the closeout process of a project or build, but punch lists can be executed at any major milestone during a project to ensure that the section meets the expectations of the clients, contractor and contract.

A zero punch list in construction is when, after a client and contractor walkthrough occurs, no deficiencies, issues or problems are identified by either party. A zero punch list is a building standard for contractors to strive toward for producing work that meets their clients’ expectations on time and without any issues.

Where a punch list is a list of items that need to be addressed prior to a project being completed, a snag list is a list of items that are holding up a project from being finished. Punch list items can be added by clients or contractors while snag list items are typically only added by contractors. Punch lists are also typically compiled toward the end of a project while a snag list is a living document showing problem areas throughout the build.

Construction payment software makes paying and getting paid as easy as sending an email. Money is transferred through a safe and secure online payment provider for quick flow from bank to bank. No need for the physical exchange of cash or checks – just flexible payment options that don’t take extra time out of your day.

Some effective marketing channels for construction businesses are website, social media, email, content, networking, referral and video … to name a few. The best marketing channels for construction businesses vary based on your target audience and goals.

Marketing is a long-term investment, and it’s important not to judge effectiveness on immediate success. Faster results may be seen with email and social media marketing, while building brand awareness and attracting steady, quality leads can take longer. It takes consistent effort to develop a strong online presence and foster those professional networking relationships.

Partnering with influencers in the construction business can help attract your ideal client. The right influencer uses and likes your services, aligns with your values and attracts your goal demographic. These partnerships can also increase your brand awareness and online engagement.

The typical duration of a construction handover process can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months.

The documentation that should be included in a construction handover typically consists of project plans, specifications, permits, certificates, warranties, as-built drawings and any other relevant documentation related to the construction project.

Common causes of construction handover delays include unforeseen site conditions, weather delays, contractor or subcontractor issues, design changes and inspections or approvals taking longer than anticipated. These delays can impact the overall timeline and budget of the project.

Subcontractor software streamlines project management, helping builders track subcontractor work, schedules and communication more efficiently.

Yes, subcontractor software often integrates with various construction tools, simplifying data sharing and improving project coordination. When using Buildertrend, for example, subcontractor features are integrated alongside sales, project and financial management toolkits.

Training is recommended to maximize the benefits of subcontractor software, ensuring effective usage and adoption. Buildertrend offers many ways to maximize software use, including Buildertrend Learning Academy, Buildertrend University, Onsite Consulting and more.

Construction project insurance safeguards contractors, homeowners and projects under construction from the many risks and potential losses involved. Insurance provides financial protection against property damage, accidents, injuries and other expensive disruptions during the construction process.

Yes, subcontractors are often covered under construction project insurance, but the extent of their coverage can vary based on the specific insurance policy and contract agreement. Construction project insurance provides coverage for the primary contractor and subcontractors – but some subcontractors may also be required to carry their own insurance. Know the terms of your contract.

Some challenges associated with construction insurance are accurately assessing the risk of a project, navigating ever-changing regulations, accounting for large-scale and complex projects and guaranteeing no gaps in coverage. Working closely with your insurance agent will help you navigate these obstacles.

Yes! Builders can track costs in real time and stay on budget with Buildertrend’s construction budgeting software. The comprehensive suite of key features is designed to streamline and enhance the budget management process for all construction pros.

Yes! Buildertrend offers customer relationship management tools that will ensure builders maintain strong connections with their clients through every stage of the project. CRM software also helps to bring in more sales and boosts profits.

Yes! Buildertrend’s change order software makes it easy to create, manage and track change orders. Accurate change orders will improve the experience for your clients, prevent payments from slipping through the cracks and ensure you’re not taking on unexpected costs.

Getting started with Buildertrend is quick and simple. Home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors looking to implement our construction project management software into their daily processes can schedule a demo to learn more about how to use Buildertrend. Or you can head straight to our pricing page to sign up for the plan that works best for your company’s needs.

You can see how Buildertrend has helped other construction businesses achieve success by reading their stories on our case study page. You can also learn more about Buildertrend, its features and how it works through additional resources provided on our blog. You can also see our software in action by scheduling a demo.

Construction punch list software is a tool that streamlines the process of creating, tracking and completing project tasks. The document outlines tasks that need to be completed before a construction project is ready for final inspection.

Both checklists and punch lists serve important roles in every construction project. A checklist is a comprehensive list of tasks and requirements that need to be met during different phases of the construction project. A punch list is typically created near the end of the project, and it details what needs to be addressed before the project can be completed.

A construction punch list includes items that need to be completed before the project is handed over to the client. Some punch list examples of items to be completed might be front door alignment, basement bathroom grout, kitchen cabinet hardware, guest bedroom window and exterior paint touch-ups. The punch list will also include a description of what needs to be done.

Creating and managing the punch list for a construction project is a collaborative effort. The list typically falls on the general contractor, subcontractors, architect or designer as well as the client and inspection team.

A construction client portal is a secure online platform that serves as a one-stop shop for project information. Clients can log in and see the latest updates on their project through progress photos, a view of the project schedule and budget details. They’re able to sign proposals and make selections on their own. The portal also serves as a communication tool between the construction crew and the homeowners. With access to this portal, clients know what’s going on with their investment and feel like a part of the project.

Client portals are a quick and easy way to tell homeowners which stage their project is at through daily logs, photos and more. It saves builders time on the phone because all communication is done through the portal. Homeowners have fewer questions when information is available to them up front. Less time spent taking phone calls from clients means builders can focus on executing the project at hand.

The construction client portal also serves as a staple for a company’s sales pitch to prospective clients. This tool can help builders win more jobs because clients value transparency and trust, and having access puts them at ease.

The portal provides a wealth of project-related data, including project schedules, progress reports, budget and expense tracking, change orders, design documents and more. It also facilitates communication with the team and allows for feedback and requests.

In Buildertrend, the Client Portal can be customized so builders can decide which pieces of information they would like their clients to have access to. For example, you may not want your clients to have access to the budget. So you can simply turn that feature off while allowing them to see other things like photos and documents. With these choices, the builder can make the portal their own to fit their business.

The information in the portal is updated in real time. As soon as progress is made, documents are uploaded or changes occur, the portal will reflect those updates, allowing clients to stay informed throughout the construction process.

Construction project management software is a technology solution designed to streamline and improve the various aspects of forecasting, planning, executing and monitoring for construction businesses. It assists project managers, contractors and other stakeholders with task management, project progress tracking, resource management and effective communication.

Yes, many construction project management systems are designed to cater to both large enterprises and small businesses. There are solutions available that offer customizable features and pricing plans, making them accessible for businesses of various sizes.

Construction project management solutions facilitate effective subcontractor management by centralizing communication, task assignment, and tracking. It streamlines resource allocation, document management scheduling and coordination, allowing real-time updates and issue resolution. 

The software assesses subcontractor performance, offers mobile accessibility, aids in payment and invoicing, and integrates with other software solutions such as CRMs. This enhances transparency, collaboration, and efficiency between main contractors and subcontractors throughout the entire project.

A renovation plan should include the home improvement project objectives, renovation cost estimates, timeline, design details, material selections, permits and regulatory considerations, general contractor information and any special instructions or requirements.

Unforeseen issues are common in the renovation process even with years of experience. With proper planning, however, house remodel challenges can be mitigated efficiently. Using templates and software can help you to mitigate these risks and create your client’s dream home. It’s also important to have a contingency plan in place for unexpected costs and timeline adjustments.

Yes, you can use a home remodel plan template as a starting point for renovating different types of rooms within a house. The basic principles of planning a renovation project, such as interior design, project scope and renovation budgets, apply across various rooms. Here are some specific types of rooms commonly considered for renovation:

1. Kitchen
2. Bathroom
3. Bedroom
4. Living room
5. Dining room
6. Basement
7. Outdoor space

Selections refer to the process of choosing materials, finishes and other products required to finish a construction project.

Even small-scale projects can require multiple finishes and products. Selections software manages all the details and approvals required from a client to ensure a seamless building process.

Typically, construction selections software can integrate with other construction software. Buildertrend, for example, offers selections features as a part of a larger solution also offering financial, project, sales and client management.

It’s important to consider your construction company’s specific circumstances – including overhead, company size and project volume –before choosing a software solution. As you demo solutions, be sure to ask each software provider about their selections capabilities to ensure your choice meets your needs.

Buildertrend and Procore are both construction management software platforms that simplify the building process from start to finish. Each program offers features specific to their customers – Procore’s focuses on the complex commercial builder and Buildertrend on the small to medium-sized commercial builder.

Buildertrend is better than Procore when it comes to offering features specific to the residential builder and remodeler. Buildertrend is also better at protecting the builder’s bottom line – it’s considerably less expensive than Procore.

Procore offers a variety of certification courses for project managers, subcontractors and architects etc. Buildertrend offers Onsite Consulting as well as a support team, 24/7 Help Center, Buildertrend Learning Academy and Buildertrend University.

Lien waivers are essential documents in construction and real estate project management. They serve to minimize financial risks by affirming that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid, preventing potential legal complications. This fosters trust and cooperation among project stakeholders, enabling smoother payments and reducing the likelihood of disputes. Lien waivers also protect property owners and payees from the possibility of a lien being placed on their property due to unpaid bills.

Yes. Buildertrend and other construction sales software platforms offer integrations with accounting software, project management tools and other relevant business systems. This helps in streamlining operations and maintaining data consistency.

Construction sales software like Buildertrend is a specialized digital tool designed to help construction companies manage their sales processes more efficiently. It typically includes features for lead tracking, bid management, customer relationship management and reporting.

Companies can effectively communicate with clients by providing transparent explanations of how inflation impacts construction costs. Be specific with your numbers and explanation of costs in both the estimate and the formal bid. With a clear view of costs, clients will know what to expect, and this will lead to an honest conversation about the budget.

Companies calculate construction inflation by analyzing historical data on material and labor costs while considering current market trends. An accurate estimate considers the price variations of materials such as lumber, concrete and steel as well as changing costs of labor.

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates impact the prices of imported materials and equipment. Companies may experience cost changes due to elevating currency exchange rates – meaning there may be an increase in project expenses for materials purchased from international markets.

Every person involved in a construction project can benefit from using WIP software. This can include, but isn’t limited to, project managers, subcontractors, procurement specialists, office staff and homeowners.

WIP software is instrumental in proper resource management and allocation. It ensures construction professionals can assign labor, equipment and materials cost-effectively and efficiently.

One-way. With this unidirectional sync, information is sent from Pipedrive to Buildertrend. In the future, this integration will allow for data to sync either direction.

TBD

No. It can take up to five minutes to send the information from Pipedrive to Buildertrend.

Yes. Construction project management software like Buildertrend is designed to be versatile and can be used for various types of construction projects, including residential, commercial and specialty work.

Project management software solutions like Buildertrend offer benefits like improved project planning, streamlined communication with stakeholders, enhanced document control, better resource allocation, real-time tracking of progress and increased overall project efficiency.

Construction warranty management software can benefit builders looking to organize and track warranties related to their projects. By documenting warranty periods, administering warranty claims, scheduling maintenance tasks and facilitating communication, builders can improve overall project efficiency.

Buildertrend’s construction warranty management software doesn’t specifically connect with other software and third-party applications. However, Buildertrend has a variety of powerful integration tools, including QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto, Pro Xtra, HubSpot, Salesforce and Pipedrive. 

Training and support for construction warranty management is offered through Buildertrend Learning Academy. Hone your skills and enhance your Buildertrend experience with free educational courses tailored to your needs.

Key features of construction communication software typically include customer support, messaging or chat functionality, document management, task management, scheduling, file storage, photo sharing and reporting tools. Some platforms may also include change orders, invoicing, blueprint viewing and real-time progress tracking.

Yes. Construction communication software platforms typically offer integrations with project management, scheduling and accounting software programs. This allows for a seamless workflow and better data sharing between applications. Buildertrend’s construction communication software connects to CRMs like HubSpot, Salesforce and Pipedrive, as well as financial solutions including QuickBooks, Xero and Gusto.

All-in-one construction software refers to a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline and manage various aspects of the construction project lifecycle within a single platform. This type of software integrates multiple tools and features to facilitate project management, communication, collaboration and documentation. The goal is to centralize information and processes, making it easier for construction professionals to manage projects efficiently.

An all-in-one construction software like Buildertrend includes – but is not limited to – features for project management, communication and collaboration, documentation, financial management, scheduling and time tracking, mobile accessibility and reporting.

Buildertrend is one of the most well-known and widely used construction management software platforms. We are the best all-in-one construction software solution in the industry for home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors.

You’ll need a U.S.-based company with a physical address in the U.S. to be eligible for an account. We require company structure, contact details, tax ID and ownership details including Social Security number.

Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) are two fundamental bookkeeping aspects for a construction business’ financial transactions, but they represent different sides of the same coin. Accounts payable is related to the company’s obligations to pay others, while accounts receivable pertains to the money the company expects to receive from its customers after construction jobs. Both are crucial for managing a company’s cash flow and financial stability.

A marketing strategy helps a construction company build brand awareness, find new leads, reach potential clients, stand out from competitors and ultimately win more contracts. It also provides a structured approach for marketing teams to allocate resources for digital marketing tactics.

The key components of a construction strategy typically include:

• Mission, vision and core values: Clear statements that define the purpose, long-term aspirations and fundamental beliefs of the construction company.
• Market analysis and positioning: Understanding the construction market landscape is crucial. Analyze market trends, identify target segments and assess competition.
• Goals and objectives: Clearly defined, measurable and achievable goals aligned with the company’s vision.
• Resource allocation: Determine the resources required to execute the strategies effectively.
• Risk management: Identify potential risks and uncertainties that could impact construction projects or business operations.
• Technology integration: Evaluate and integrate new technologies and innovative practices that can improve construction processes, efficiency, safety and sustainability.
• Monitoring, evaluation and adaptation: Establish key performance indicators and mechanisms for monitoring progress towards goals.

A construction strategic planning template is a tool that helps builders, remodelers, contractors and other professionals in the construction industry determine short- and long-term visions for their businesses. It’s a structured framework or outline design to help pinpoint objectives, tactics and goals required to achieve success.

Strategic planning in construction serves as a guide for company initiatives, plans for growth and defining what the future looks like. It typically includes categories such as theme, purpose, annual and quarterly goals and a five-year outlook.

The template is designed to be user-friendly and can be modified to fit the needs of any construction company.

Strategic planning in construction, like in any other industry, comes with its own set of challenges. Some common challenges faced by construction companies in strategic planning include:

• Market volatility and economic uncertainty: The construction industry is susceptible to economic fluctuations, market volatility and changes in government regulations.
• Complex projects: Construction projects are often complex, involving multiple stakeholders, intricate logistics, tight schedules and unpredictable variables.
• Sustainability and environmental compliance: Meeting sustainability goals and adhering to environmental regulations in construction projects can be demanding.
• Skilled labor shortage: Recruiting and retaining qualified personnel can be challenging, affecting project timelines and overall productivity.

Measuring the success of strategic planning in a construction company involves evaluating various factors to determine if the company is meeting its objectives and progressing toward its defined goals. There are several ways a construction company can measure the success of its strategic planning including:

• Goal achievement: Assess whether the company has achieved the specific goals and objectives outlined in the strategic plan. These goals could include financial targets, completion of projects within set timelines, market expansion, customer satisfaction metrics, etc.
• Key performance indicators: Define and track KPIs related to various aspects of the business, such as project completion rates, profitability, revenue growth, safety records, employee productivity, client retention rates, etc. Analyzing these KPIs against predetermined benchmarks helps gauge performance.
• Financial performance: Evaluate financial metrics such as revenue growth, profit margins, return on investment, cost savings and adherence to budgetary goals outlined in the strategic plan.
• Project performance: Assess the performance of individual construction projects against planned budgets, schedules, quality standards and client satisfaction levels. This includes monitoring project milestones, completion rates and identifying any deviations from initial plans.
• Employee engagement and performance: Measure employee satisfaction, retention rates, skill development and productivity levels. Engaged and motivated employees often contribute to the successful execution of strategic plans.

Ultimately, the level of detail in your construction strategic planning template should align with your specific business goals and long-term vision for success.

The important expertise for success in construction includes technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, attention to detail, physical stamina and dexterity, communication skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.

Hiring a construction recruitment company can be beneficial for several reasons. Construction recruitment agencies have expertise in the industry and can quickly identify qualified candidates with the necessary skills and experience for your specific job openings. Also, construction recruitment consultants can save you time and resources by taking over the administrative tasks. Recruitment agencies help you maintain confidentiality and avoid conflicts of interest. Finally, recruitment agencies can offer flexibility in hiring.

It’s important to choose the right recruitment services for your needs. Research potential agencies and their track record in the construction industry before making a decision – consider factors such as their reputation, experience and fees.

Construction recruiters use a variety of methods to find the right candidates, including posting job listings to online job boards, reaching out to industry associations and trade schools, attending job fairs and networking events and using social media and other digital platforms.

Testimonials can be very important for construction recruiting as they provide social proof and validation of a company’s capabilities and reputation. In the construction industry, reputation and past work are key factors in attracting clients and winning new projects, and the same applies to recruiting top talent. Testimonials from previous or current employees can offer insight into a company’s culture, work environment and management style, which is crucial for job seekers when deciding where to apply.

Positive testimonials can also help build trust and credibility with candidates, particularly if they come from respected industry professionals or clients. Overall, testimonials can be a valuable tool for construction recruiters in building their employer brand and attracting top talent.

Before selecting a construction workflow software, you should consider the specific needs of your project, the size of your team, ease of use, integration capabilities and overall compatibility with your workflow.

Buildertrend specializes in residential construction and offers tools for lead, project, communication and financial management. Our platform is one of the leading construction workflow software solutions for home builders and remodelers.

Construction workflow software is beneficial for a wide range of stakeholders involved in the construction industry. This includes:

• General contractors
• Subcontractors
• Project managers
• Architects and designers
• Homeowners and clients
• Construction managers
• Site supervisors and foremen
• Estimators
• Quality control teams
• Safety managers

The collaborative nature of construction projects, the need for efficient communication and the complexity of managing multiple tasks and stakeholders make construction workflow software a valuable tool for enhancing productivity and project success.

Automating construction workflows involves leveraging technology to streamline processes, reduce manual efforts and enhance overall efficiency.

By investing in these tools, construction workflows can be automated, leading to increased efficiency, reduced errors and improved collaboration throughout the entire project.

Getting started with construction workflow software involves a systematic approach to ensure a smooth transition and effective utilization of the chosen tools. Follow these simple steps to get started:

1.     Assess your company and team needs: What manual tasks are taking too much time that could be automated?

2.    Research and compare software options: Choose one that best suits your business goals and works with your budget.

3.    Train your team: Adopting new technology only works if the whole team is on board. 

4.    Scale up gradually: Learn and add one feature at a time to prevent overwhelm.

5.    Monitor and optimize: Regularly assess the results of your new automation tools and adjust where needed. 

A construction profit margin calculator considers several key factors to determine the profitability of a construction project. These factors are used to calculate the profit margin by analyzing the revenue generated and the costs incurred. For a basic profit margin calculation, you should consider factors such as unit cost, quantities, markup and builder cost.

Construction profit margin calculators are valuable tools for assessing the financial viability of construction projects, but they do have limitations.

Profit margin calculators use simplified models to estimate profitability. They may not capture all the nuances and complexities of a construction project, such as variations in labor efficiency, fluctuating material prices or project-specific risks.

The accuracy of profit margin calculations also depends on the accuracy of the data input. Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to misleading results.

Yes. A profit margin calculator can be used for both individual construction projects and to assess the overall profitability of your construction business. (Want to make a note here to ensure this is accurate for our profit margin calculator)

Buildertrend Wallet rewards are simple: earn 1% cash back on all purchases and up to 5% cash back in bonus categories up to $6,000 with every Buildertrend Mastercard debit card issued to your team. No upfront investment, no jumping through hoops. Your cash back will be credited to your account automatically at the end of each month.

When selecting a construction procurement method, several factors must be considered: complexity of the project, time constraints, budget, risks, project owner’s expertise and market conditions. Carefully consider all of the above before selecting the procurement method that best suits the unique needs of your project.

The basic construction procurement procedures typically involve these stages: needs assessment and planning, vendor selection, tendering, evaluation and negotiation, contract award and contract management.

A construction procurement plan is a document that outlines the procurement overview and strategy for a project. The purpose is to be sure the project has the necessary goods and services for construction to begin.

You can assess ROI by calculating the difference between the total cost of investment and the benefits of the project. This can be done at any point during or after the project is finished.

Risks and uncertainties are inherent in any construction project and can impact ROI significantly. If these aren’t identified and managed properly, they can lead to cost overruns, schedule delays and lower profits, all of which can reduce the overall ROI of the project. 

me common challenges in calculating ROI for construction projects include:

• Accurately estimating costs and benefits
• Accounting for uncertainty and risk
• Determining the appropriate time frame for measuring ROI

Calculating ROI for construction projects can be difficult due to the complexity of a build and the many stakeholders involved. Gathering and analyzing data is a challenge, but it’s crucial for accurate calculations. That’s why working with construction professionals and reliable tools is important.

The validity of a construction proposal varies depending on its terms and conditions. It’s common to include a period of time before the proposal is considered expired, such as 30 or 60 days. While existing proposals can be used for context, new proposals should be created if a project is revisited after the expiration date.

A construction proposal can – and should – be customized to meet the specific needs and requirements of a project and client. However, there are several common elements to include within a proposal, such as scope, timeline, costs, terms and conditions, material specifications and builder qualifications.

A construction proposal is not legally binding unless it is accepted and signed by both parties. In that instance, a proposal becomes a legally binding construction contract.

In many cases, proposals and estimates are submitted to potential customers as distinct documents to meet client expectations. Sometimes, especially for small businesses and smaller projects or in certain contracting formats, the proposal and estimate might be combined into a single document.

Once accepted and signed, a proposal often becomes part of the contract, making the specific price and terms outlined within it binding. Estimates are generally non-binding and serve as a guideline. Final costs can vary due to unforeseen circumstances or changes in project scope.

If there are substantial differences between the estimate and actual costs, it might lead to discussions, negotiations or potential disputes between the general contractor and the client. Clarity in contractual terms regarding how discrepancies will be addressed can help manage such situations.

Yes, a purchase order is generally considered a legally binding document in commercial transactions, including those within the construction industry. When a buyer issues a purchase order to a seller (such as a general contractor to a supplier or subcontractor), it serves as a formal legal contract outlining the terms, deliverables and conditions of the purchase.

Absolutely, tracking purchase order numbers for future reference is a crucial practice in the construction industry (and in most business operations). Tracking purchase order numbers is essential for maintaining organized and transparent procurement processes, financial management and regulatory compliance within the construction industry.

Reviews impact all aspects of digital marketing including local search engine rankings and influence potential customers. Positive reviews build trust and credibility, improving a contractor business’ organic traffic and online visibility.

Engage with the local community and share project updates, customer testimonials and relevant content. Use geotags and local hashtags to enhance your online presence and brand awareness. Make sure that all of your social media profiles include information like your website address and phone number.

Neglecting online directories, Google Business Profile, inconsistent NAP information, ignoring customer reviews and overlooking on-page SEO optimization are common pitfalls made by local businesses. It’s also important to focus on creating backlinks, customizing meta descriptions and working with a reputable SEO company.

There are several benefits of supply chain management in the construction sector:

• Cost reduction: Efficient management of the supply chain reduces costs associated with delays, excess inventory or wastage.
• Project timelines: Supply chain integration ensures timely delivery of materials, preventing project delays.
• Quality control: Successful supply chain management helps in ensuring the quality and reliability of material management and services.
• Risk management: It minimizes risks related to disruptions in the supply chain.

Buildertrend Boost is for Buildertrend customers who want help training on the tools and features within the platform, and who are looking to successfully and quickly get up and running.

To implement software, it’s common to follow a structured process known as an implementation plan. The process typically involves assessing and prioritizing business needs, completing data migration and initial setup, training users, troubleshooting and gradually transitioning to using the new software.

Installation refers to the process of setting up and configuring software onto a computer or server. Implementation is a much broader process, which includes customization, data migration, training and integration. It’s important to note many software solutions are offered as a SaaS model, which does not require installation as the software is accessed via the internet and a browser or mobile app. 

Software implementation can vary based on the type, scope and individual requirements of each solution. With Buildertrend, for example, it’s common to have implementation completed in 90 days, but each business case is different. That’s why we provide individualized support to ensure a successful software rollout regardless of timeline.

Common insurance policies that commercial builders use as a part of their risk management strategy include general liability insurance – which covers third-party bodily injury or property damage claims – and builder’s risk insurance, which provides coverage for damage to the construction project during construction.

Builder’s risk insurance provides coverage for damage to the construction project itself, such as from fire, theft or vandalism, while general liability insurance protects against third-party claims for bodily injury or property damage that happen as a result of the construction activities.

Construction insurance is an important component of a builder’s risk management strategy. It helps protect construction companies, contractors and project owners from financial loss and legal liabilities that may arise during the construction process.

The approval time for construction business loans can vary depending on the complexity of your application and the documentation you’ve provided. Often, the process can range from days to weeks, depending on the lender.

When applying for a construction business loan, you’ll typically need financial documents such as tax returns and bank statements, as well as a business plan including timelines, scope of work and projections. Specific requirements may vary by lender.

Construction loans can cover a wide array of business needs. Common inclusions are project costs, equipment purchases, working capital, business expansion and cash flow management. Be sure to talk with your own financial and financing advisers to discuss your specific financing needs and any applicable restrictions.

Contractor software is typically designed to integrate with other tools, like accounting and payroll software. Before you implement a software, check what Application Programming Interface’s (API’s) and integrations are available, and if any other third-party vendors are already in that list or if a custom API or integration would be necessary. 

To ensure data security and privacy when using contractor software, be sure to check data protection policies prior to implementation. A Software as a Service provider should be able to provide documentation and assurances on their protection policies. Additionally, be sure to adhere to any password and security best practices required by the software. 

Never purchase software without first requesting a demo. Especially when considering an all-encompassing contractor software, you’ll need ample time to review features, out-of-the-box functionality and customization options.

While both Buildertrend and BuildBook are construction project management platforms, they differ significantly in terms of their features, pricing models and target audiences. They may share some similarities in basic functionality; however, their overall offerings and target markets are distinct.

Determining whether Buildertrend is better than BuildBook depends on the specific needs and preferences of the construction business.

Buildertrend is preferred by more established home builders seeking extensive customization options and advanced features. BuildBook is favored by smaller to mid-sized businesses for its simplicity and transparent pricing.

Ultimately, the “better” choice hinges on which platform aligns more closely with the unique requirements and priorities of the construction business.

Both Buildertrend and BuildBook offer comprehensive training resources, including tutorials, webinars and documentation, to onboard users effectively.

Additionally, both platforms provide customer support through various channels such as email, phone and live chat to assist users with any inquiries or technical issues they may encounter during their use of the software.

Buildertrend goes a step beyond with customized training packages that include a personalized success plan, a dedicated coach and strategic business reviews to ensure you hit your goals.

Yes, both Buildertrend and Houzz Pro prioritize security and provide support to ensure the protection of user data and sensitive information. Buildertrend employs various security measures to safeguard user data, including encryption protocols to protect data transmission, access controls to limit unauthorized access, regular security audits and compliance with industry-standard security certifications. Users of these platforms can feel confident in the security measures implemented to safeguard their information.

Buildertrend is better than Houzz Pro when it comes to offering features specific to established home builders and general contractors looking to scale their businesses. Buildertrend has also been on the market for 18 years (founded in 2006) while Houzz Pro was established just recently in 2020.

Houzz Pro offers basic support options such as their help center and video tutorials. Buildertrend offers more extensive, in-depth options that include dedicated one-on-one coaching, Onsite Consulting, 24/7 Help Center, Buildertrend University and Buildertrend Learning Academy.

The key components of a construction budgeting template typically include:

• Project details: This section includes information such as project name, location, start and end dates and client details.
• Cost categories: A comprehensive list of cost categories is essential for accurately estimating expenses. Common categories may include labor costs, materials, permits and fees, equipment rentals, subcontractor fees, insurance costs and contingency funds.
• Cost estimates: Builders can input estimated costs for each cost category based on their experience or by using construction software that provides accurate pricing data.
• Actual costs: As the project progresses, actual costs incurred can be recorded in this section to track any deviations from the initial estimates.
• Variance analysis: This component allows builders to compare estimated costs against actual costs to identify any discrepancies or areas where adjustments need to be made.
• Payment schedule: A payment schedule outlines when payments are due from clients or when subcontractors need to be paid. It helps ensure timely cash flow management throughout the project.
• Profitability analysis: Builders can analyze their profit margins by comparing total expenses against projected revenues or contract amounts in this section.
• Notes and comments: This component allows users to add additional information or specific details related to certain cost items or any other relevant notes for reference.

When using a construction budgeting template, it’s important to be aware of common pitfalls that can hinder its effectiveness. Understanding these pitfalls can help builders, remodelers, contractors and other construction professionals make the most out of their budgeting process and ensure accurate financial planning.

• Failing to customize the template to suit specific project requirements
• Not accounting for unexpected costs or contingencies
• Inaccurate data entry
• Not using advanced technology to improve accuracy
• Overlooking ongoing monitoring and review of the budget

By being mindful of these common pitfalls when using a construction budgeting template, you can optimize your budgeting process, avoid costly mistakes and achieve more accurate financial planning for your construction projects.

When it comes to construction budgeting, having a detailed budget template can greatly benefit builders, remodelers and contractors. The level of detail in your budgeting template will depend on the specific needs and requirements of your construction business.

A comprehensive construction budgeting template should include all the necessary categories and subcategories to accurately capture the various costs involved in a project. This may include items such as labor costs, material costs, permits and fees, equipment rentals, subcontractor expenses, overhead costs and contingency funds.

By having a detailed budgeting template in place, you can effectively track expenses and ensure that you stay within your allocated budget. This not only helps with financial planning but also allows for better decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

Ultimately, the level of detail in your construction budgeting template should align with your specific business needs. It’s important to strike a balance of providing enough granularity to accurately capture costs while also maintaining simplicity for ease of use. Regularly reviewing and updating your budget template as needed will ensure that it remains relevant and effective for managing your construction projects successfully.

Automated email marketing is important for construction businesses because it ensures consistent and timely communication with clients and prospects, streamlines marketing efforts and frees up valuable time for focusing on core business activities.

By automating routine email tasks, construction teams can maintain a strong presence in their clients’ minds, nurture leads more effectively and provide updates and promotions without manual effort, ultimately driving higher engagement and increasing project opportunities.

Builders should use email marketing software for lead management because it enables them to efficiently organize, track and nurture leads through automated and targeted communication.

By leveraging email marketing software, like Buildertrend, builders can maintain consistent follow-ups, provide timely updates and convert more leads into satisfied clients – all while saving time typically spent on manual lead management processes.

Email marketing software is a digital tool designed to help businesses create, send and manage email campaigns effectively. It provides features such as customizable email templates, automated sending schedules, audience segmentation and analytics to track the performance of email campaigns.

This software enables businesses to reach their audience with targeted messages, streamline communication and analyze engagement to refine their marketing strategies and improve overall results.

Buildertrend Chat enhances Buildertrend’s other communication features by providing a real-time, centralized platform for team collaboration and information sharing. It complements traditional communication methods such as email and notifications by offering instant messaging capabilities, which facilitate quicker decision-making and more efficient problem-solving. The chat feature allows for the immediate exchange of updates, photos and documents, ensuring that all team members are on the same page. This integration helps maintain a continuous and clear line of communication across different project stakeholders, improving overall project coordination and efficiency.

Yes, Buildertrend Chat was designed with a focus on security and privacy, addressing concerns that arise with handling sensitive project information. By implementing security measures that include data encryption, access controls, user authentication and security audits, Buildertrend Chat aims to provide a secure environment for managing sensitive information, addressing the critical security and privacy concerns of its users.

Yes, Buildertrend Chat assists in tracking and managing project issues and changes effectively. It provides a centralized platform for communication, enabling project stakeholders to discuss and document issues and changes in real-time. The Chat feature integrates with other project management tools within Buildertrend, such as task lists and schedules, ensuring that all changes and issues are logged and tracked systematically. This integration helps in maintaining a clear record of discussions, decisions and updates, facilitating better project management and accountability.

Construction jobs such as custom builds, remodels, landscaping and specialty residential projects benefit from brick calculators by accurately estimating the quantity of materials needed. Using a specialized calculator for individual materials helps in budgeting and reducing waste.

Yes, a brick calculator typically accounts for factors such as waste and errors by including a percentage margin to ensure sufficient materials are ordered. This helps accommodate unforeseen issues and reduces the risk of project delays due to material shortages.

To ensure the accuracy of a brick calculator’s results, provide precise measurements and double-check your inputs for any errors. Using a reliable calculator that factors in waste, errors and specific project details will enhance accuracy.

Buildertrend specializes in working with residential builders, remodelers and specialty contractors. Its robust software platform and additional services cater to more established construction businesses that are ready to focus on more than just project management.

Buildertrend recommends taking one of the following steps:

1. Schedule a second demo with a sales engineer who has in-depth knowledge of the platform. They’ll take you a step further in understanding exactly how Buildertrend works and how it can help your business.
2. Sign up for Buildertrend. Pick the pricing plan recommended to you by your sales rep and get started today!
3. Learn more about how Buildertrend has helped other customers by reading our case studies, or reach out your sales rep to get any lingering questions answered.

Buildertrend is a construction management software designed to help home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors run their business.

Their desktop and mobile app offer a comprehensive collection of tools including project scheduling, budgeting, communication and document management, which enhances collaboration and efficiency across teams. By integrating various aspects of construction management into a single platform, Buildertrend helps users save time, reduce costs and improve overall business results.

When you link your Lowe’s Pro account to Buildertrend, you’ll unlock the following deals:

• Up to 15%* off for Lowes.com and in-app purchases
• Get a 20% instant member paint discount
• Save MORE with member volume discounts on eligible quotes of $2,000 or more
• Earn points on every purchase and redeem for “MyLowe’s Money” or exclusive rewards
• Save TIME with purchase authorization and online order quoting
• Member-only deals

Builders can expect several benefits when they fully invest in Buildertrend:

• Improved project management: Buildertrend provides tools for scheduling, progress tracking and task management, allowing builders to keep projects moving on time and within budget. This helps in minimizing delays and cost overruns.
• Enhanced communication and collaboration: The platform facilitates better communication between team members, subcontractors and clients through features like messaging, real-time updates and document sharing. This reduces misunderstandings and improves coordination.
• Increased efficiency and productivity: Buildertrend’s user-friendly interface and automation of routine tasks save time and effort. Builders can manage multiple projects from a single dashboard, streamline workflows and quickly address issues as they arise, leading to more efficient operations.

Yes. Buildertrend’s Budget, Estimate and Invoice features allow for both cost plus and fixed price contracts.

A cost plus construction project is a type of construction contract where the contractor is paid for all of the project-related expenses incurred, plus an additional fee or percentage for their services. This method contrasts with fixed-price contracts where the contractor agrees to complete the project for a set amount.

Cost plus contracts are beneficial in scenarios where flexibility and detailed cost tracking are more important than having a predetermined total project cost. They are often used in custom home building, large-scale renovations and other complex construction projects.

The general discount applies to online or mobile app purchases only. The discount will display on all products on Lowes.com and after adding products to your cart. You can either have them shipped to you, or you can pick them up in store. To take advantage of the volume discount program, visit the Lowe’s Pro counter inside your local Lowe’s store.

1. Sign up for Lowe’s MVP Pro Rewards or log in to your current Lowes MVP Pro Rewards through the link, and the Buildertrend discount code (BT123) will automatically activate.
2. Enter all company payment methods into your wallet (required to take advantage of the MVP Loyalty Rewards based on registered spend).
3. Invite users within your company to use your Lowe’s MVP Pro Rewards and start saving.

The Buildertrend discount is for online purchases. However, if you’d like to take advantage of the volume savings discount, you can go to the Lowe’s Pro counter in store.

The Messaging feature enhances Buildertrend’s other communication tools by centralizing all project-related communications within the platform, ensuring that messages are easily accessible and contextually linked to specific project management tools like Daily Logs, Tasks, Scheduling and Documents. This integration facilitates seamless collaboration among team members, subcontractors and clients, improving transparency and reducing the risk of miscommunication. Real-time messaging and notifications also ensure important updates are promptly received and addressed, enhancing overall project efficiency and accountability by providing a clear, documented history of all interactions and decisions.

Yes, Buildertrend Messaging addresses security and privacy concerns for sensitive project information by implementing robust encryption protocols, ensuring that all communications are securely transmitted and stored. The platform also provides user authentication and access controls, allowing project administrators to manage who can view and participate in conversations. Buildertrend maintains rigorous data protection policies and regularly updates its security measures to guard against unauthorized access and potential breaches, ensuring that all project-related communications remain confidential and secure.

Yes, Buildertrend Messaging assists in tracking and managing project issues and changes by providing a centralized platform where all communications related to project modifications are documented and easily accessible. This feature allows team members to discuss and log issues as they arise, ensuring that every change request, update or problem is recorded in real-time. The integration of messages with other project management tools, such as Tasks and Scheduling, ensures that any adjustments are seamlessly communicated to all relevant parties. This organized approach facilitates better tracking of project progress, accountability and timely resolution of issues – ultimately leading to more efficient project management.

The primary difference between a board foot and a linear foot lies in how they measure lumber. A board foot is a volumetric measurement, quantifying the volume of lumber, whereas a linear foot is a measurement of length.

A linear foot measures only the length of a piece of lumber, regardless of its width or thickness. It’s simply a one-dimensional measurement, making it useful for determining the total length of materials needed for projects like framing or trim work, without accounting for volume.

While a board foot measures volume and provides a more comprehensive understanding of the amount of lumber, a linear foot measures only length and is used for simpler, more straightforward measurements

To calculate the board feet in a 2x4x8 piece of lumber, you’ll use the following formula:

(2 inches x 4 inches x 8 feet)/12 = 5.33 board feet

Understanding the board foot of lumber is crucial for several reasons:

• Accurate estimating and budgeting: Knowing the board footage helps contractors and builders accurately estimate the amount of lumber needed for a project. This ensures that the right quantity is purchased, preventing shortages or excess, which can both impact the budget.
• Cost management: Lumber is typically sold by the board foot, so understanding board footage is essential for calculating costs accurately. This knowledge helps in comparing prices from different suppliers and managing overall material costs effectively.
• Project planning: Accurate measurements of board footage allow for better planning and allocation of resources. It ensures that the right type and amount of lumber are available when needed, which helps in maintaining the project’s timeline and avoiding delays.
• Waste reduction: Proper calculation of board footage minimizes waste by ensuring that lumber is cut and used efficiently. This not only saves money but also supports sustainable building practices by reducing the amount of unused or discarded material.

• Prequalified offers
  Applying is quick and easy for your clients, and they’ll receive offers without any impact to their credit score.
• Higher loan amounts
  Your clients can receive up to $150,000, and their approvals stay active for up to 12 months.
• Reduced rates
  We offer no interest “same-as-cash” options in addition to long term monthly payment options.

A semi-custom home builder offers homebuyers the ability to customize a base floor plan with various design options, finishes and features.

Buildertrend supports semi-custom home builders by providing tools to manage client selections, change orders and customizations
efficiently. The platform streamlines communication between builders and clients, ensuring that every detail of the semi-custom home is tracked and documented.

Additionally, Buildertrend’s project management features help builders stay on schedule and within budget, even with the flexibility that semi-custom homes require.

Buildertrend offers workflows tailored for semi-custom builders, including client selections management, where homebuyers can choose finishes and options directly within the platform.

It also includes change order tracking, allowing builders to easily manage and document modifications to the base plan. Buildertrend’s scheduling and project management tools ensure that all customizations are integrated smoothly into the construction timeline, keeping the project on track.

A semi-custom home builder offers homebuyers the ability to customize a base floor plan with various design options, finishes and
features.

While the builder provides standard models to choose from, buyers can make adjustments to the layout and select from a range of upgrades to personalize their home. This option strikes a balance between the affordability of production homes and the full customization of custom homes.

Buildertrend offers a wide variety of services beyond our core platform. From monthly conferences, to financial management” – we’ve got your bases covered. Our most popular services include:

• Onsite Consulting
• Training conferences
• Online payments

To learn more about pricing, click the Learn more button next to the service you’re interested in. Some services require a meeting to provide an accurate quote. Schedule a free demo with our team to get all your questions answered.

Most of our Additional Services require a Buildertrend subscription as they are exclusive opportunities reserved for our customers.

Schedule a free demo of Buildertrend with our sales team to sign up for your core platform subscription. Be sure to discuss your interest in our Additional Services with your dedicated rep who can help get you signed up, or answer any questions you have about our offerings.

Buildertrend’s Budget tool is a comprehensive feature that allows construction professionals to manage project finances efficiently. They can track expenses, monitor costs and ensure budgets are followed. It provides real-time updates, detailed reporting and seamless integration with other Buildertrend features to enhance financial transparency and decision-making.

Builders should use Buildertrend’s Budget tool because it simplifies financial management. Accurate tracking of expenses and real-time budget monitoring in the platform can help prevent dreaded cost overruns. Plus, its detailed reporting and seamless integration with other Buildertrend features make running your entire business in one place a reality.

Besides the Budget tool, Buildertrend offers a variety of features including lead, project, financial and customer management. Tools like a CRM, Schedule, Daily Logs, Estimates and Chat help streamline communication, improve organization and enhance overall business efficiency for construction pros.

While there’s no set limit on the number of transactions you can process with Buildertrend Payments, you’ll want to stay within your approved monthly transaction volume. This amount is based on the financial documentation you provided during your application. Also, keep in mind that individual transactions can’t exceed $120,000.

You’re eligible to apply for Buildertrend Payments after at least 6 months of tenure in the platform, or be on an annual plan. These guidelines help ensure you have plenty of time to get familiar with the software and its features before processing payments.

That’s great to hear! To get started, we’ll need some basic business details and your preferred bank account information. Once approved, you’ll be notified of your monthly payment limit. If you’d like to increase that limit, we’ll just need a few additional Credit Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) and Know Your Customer (KYC) documents for review.

While Buildertrend and CompanyCam both serve the construction industry, they are designed for different purposes and offer varying levels of functionality.

CompanyCam is a photo-based app focused on job site documentation and communication, allowing teams to easily capture and share project photos in real time. It’s a great tool for visually tracking progress and keeping everyone in the loop on specific job sites.

Buildertrend, on the other hand, is a comprehensive construction management platform. In addition to job site documentation, it offers a full range of tools for scheduling, budgeting, client communication, financial management and more. Buildertrend is ideal for home builders and remodelers looking to manage every aspect of their business from one central hub, making it a more robust solution compared to CompanyCam, which is more specialized in its capabilities.

Determining whether Buildertrend is better than CompanyCam depends on the specific needs of your construction business.

Buildertrend is designed as an all-in-one construction management platform, offering a comprehensive collection of features that cover everything from project scheduling and budgeting to client communication and financial tracking. This makes it an excellent choice for contractors looking to streamline their entire operation and manage multiple aspects of their projects in one place.

In contrast, CompanyCam excels in photo documentation and job site communication, making it a valuable tool for teams focused primarily on capturing and sharing visual progress updates.

If your primary need is efficient documentation and collaboration on job sites, CompanyCam might be the right fit. However, for businesses seeking a broader range of functionalities to manage all aspects of their operations, Buildertrend offers a more robust solution.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific business requirements and goals.

Buildertrend provides a large range of training and support options to ensure users can effectively use its platform.

This includes access to extensive online resources such as webinars, tutorials and a dedicated knowledge base. Buildertrend also offers personalized training sessions and onboarding assistance for new users, helping teams integrate the software into their existing workflows. Additionally, Buildertrend’s customer support team is available via phone, email and chat, ensuring customers can receive timely help whenever needed.

In contrast, CompanyCam offers support primarily through online resources, including help articles and video tutorials.

While they do provide customer support via email and chat, the level of personalized training and onboarding is not as extensive as what Buildertrend offers.

For construction businesses seeking a more robust support system and training resources to navigate a comprehensive management platform, Buildertrend stands out as the more supportive option.

Buildertrend and Buildern are both construction management software solutions designed to help builders streamline operations, manage projects and communicate with teams and clients.

However, while they offer some overlapping features, Buildertrend stands out with a more comprehensive set of tools and services, including advanced financial management, a Sub Portal, materials management and custom business insights. Buildertrend also has a longer track record of innovation, serving over a million users globally, making it a proven choice for seasoned builders.

Buildertrend offers more robust features and flexibility, making it a better fit for established contractors.

Unlike Buildern, Buildertrend provides a fully integrated platform with tools for project management, communication, scheduling and payments, along with specialized features like cost plus billing and real-time reporting.

Additionally, Buildertrend is known for its frequent updates and customer-driven improvements, giving builders confidence they’re always using the best software to grow their business.

The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, but Buildertrend’s range of tools gives you more ways to stay organized, save time and increase profits.

Buildertrend excels in customer support and training, offering personalized onboarding, ongoing coaching and an extensive knowledge base. With Buildertrend University, on-demand webinars and dedicated customer success teams, you get continuous support to ensure you’re making the most of the software.

In contrast, Buildern provides limited training resources and fewer hands-on support options.

Buildertrend’s proactive approach helps you quickly master the platform and keeps your team up to speed, which can lead to faster adoption and greater long-term success.

The Buildertrend ambassador program involves selected customers who share their experiences with the platform and tips on how to get the most out of our tools. They provide valuable feedback and act as trusted advocates for Buildertrend to help spread the word on how we can help other builders grow their businesses.

We typically look for customers who already talk about Buildertrend because they genuinely use and love it. Our brand ambassadors share a mindset of embracing technology, innovation, growth and community. We strive to align ourselves with other thought leaders looking to make a positive impact on the construction industry.

Brand ambassadors are selected using a variety of criteria. Our primary considerations are audience size, type and quality of content, engagement rate, customer segment and Buildertrend account health. Secondary criteria include location, audience demographics and length of time as a Buildertrend customer.

If you meet the criteria, please send Buildertrend a direct message on Instagram. Or fill out this form and we’ll be in touch soon!

Criteria:

• Current Buildertrend customer
• Minimum of 1000 followers on Instagram
• A face of the company (aka, someone from your company who’s consistently visible in your social content)
• At least $1M in annual revenue.

In addition to monetary compensation, our group of brand ambassadors benefit from:

• Being included in a tight-knit group of peers
• Invitations to product test groups and events
• Opportunities to increase their own network and reach

Plus, Buildertrend brand ambassadors are often invited to speak on podcasts and panels at the International Builders’ Show.

After your demo, your next step is simple: lock in your exclusive 40% discount!

On the demo, your solutions engineer manager will review your unique needs and help set up your Buildertrend subscription, so you can start benefiting from streamlined processes and increased profitability right away.

After signing up, you’ll receive hands-on support through our onboarding team, dedicated to helping you get started quickly. Plus, you’ll have ongoing access to customer support, training resources and webinars to ensure you get the most from Buildertrend.

For customized coaching, Buildertrend Boost offers personalized guidance and strategic success plans for faster ROI.

Buildertrend is designed for established home builders, general contractors and remodelers who are ready to elevate their business to new heights.

It’s especially effective for construction businesses seeking an all-in-one solution for project management, financial tracking and client communication.

Upon program enrollment, you’ll be prompted to provide your preferred bank account to get your quarterly cashback deposited right where you want it. 

The demo typically lasts about 30 minutes, depending on how in-depth you want to explore the platform and your specific questions or business needs.

Yes! The Buildertrend demo is completely free and comes with no obligation to purchase. It’s an opportunity to see if the software is a good fit for your business.

It’s helpful, but not required, to have a list of your business challenges or priorities ready to share with your Buildertrend team member. This will allow them to tailor the demo to show how Buildertrend can address those pain points.

Yes! During the demo, the representative can explain how Buildertrend integrates with other platforms like QuickBooks. They can also demonstrate how the integrations work if applicable.

Absolutely. The demo is interactive, and our team member will pause throughout the session to ensure all your questions are answered. You can also ask for specific features to be demonstrated.

Yes, you can invite as many team members as you’d like to join the demo. It’s often beneficial for key stakeholders to see the software’s capabilities firsthand.

You just need a device with internet access and a stable connection. The demo is typically conducted via Zoom, so a microphone and speakers (or a headset) are helpful for communication.

There’s no obligation to move forward after the demo. Buildertrend team members are there to help you make an informed decision, and they’ll respect your choice either way.

Yes, your team can schedule multiple demos if needed. This can be helpful if different team members have specific questions or want to see how Buildertrend can address particular workflows. Buildertrend’s goal is to ensure you feel confident about how the platform meets your needs before making a decision.

The demo is tailored to your business. At the start of the session, your Buildertrend representative will ask about your business size, type and goals to customize the walkthrough. They’ll focus on the features most relevant to your operations, such as managing multiple projects, streamlining client communication or integrating financial tools.

Builders often ask about:

• Time savings: How much time can Buildertrend save on tasks like scheduling, invoicing or communication?
• ROI: What kind of return on investment can they expect?
• Customization: Can the platform be customized to fit their specific workflows?
• Onboarding: How long does it take to get the team fully trained on Buildertrend?
• Mobile Access: How easy is it for field teams to use the app on-site?
• Integrations: How does Buildertrend integrate with tools like QuickBooks, CRMs or estimating software?
• Customer Support: What kind of ongoing support is available after purchasing?

Buildertrend is designed for more established builders who need robust, scalable tools to manage their growing business. With years of experience and a vast network of industry-leading builders and suppliers, we’re the only platform that does it all – and does it all well. From project management to financials, Buildertrend offers a complete solution that eliminates the need for multiple disconnected tools, giving you everything you need to run your business smoothly in one place.

Your Buildertrend subscription includes unlimited users, access to our core set of tools, and helpful support resources like daily virtual trainings and our 24/7 Help Center. You’ll also benefit from integrations with leading platforms and the ability to scale your operations without hidden fees.

Buildertrend’s pricing model combines simplicity with predictability. With every feature included in one platform, you eliminate the cost and hassle of managing multiple software solutions. Receive consistent service and support with a variety of resources as you work to fully integrate Buildertrend into your workflows. With Buildertrend, you’re not just investing in software – you’re gaining a reliable partner committed to your success.

We recommend talking with our financing specialist who can best help getting you an application to apply for your qualified partnership. You can book a time here.

We offer two levels of service, so you can find the perfect fit for your business.

The Tier 1 service level provides everything you need to get started with Buildertrend. After your initial setup call and data migration assistance, you’ll have access to a range of self-guided learning and other resources including:

• Access to self-paced digital courses through the Buildertrend Learning Academy.
• Virtual training sessions.
• Customer support via chat, email, phone or our 24/7 help center.

Tier 2 includes all the features of Tier 1 and offers additional benefits like:

• A dedicated account manager to develop a tailored success plan.
• Quarterly check-ins to track your progress.
• Strategic implementation support to ensure seamless change management across your organization.
• Access to one-on-one training sessions for personalized, proactive support.

Yes. Tier 1 is added to your subscription cost, and you have the option to upgrade to Tier 2 for additional support. Having dedicated resources during setup, onboarding and ongoing help whenever you need it is highly beneficial for your continued success.

Whether you’re a home builder, remodeler or specialty contractor, our digital tools can take your business further, faster. Buildertrend works best using all our features. It’s not just a point solution but complete system of financial management, project planning, record keeping and communication. There’s no business quite like your business – and we get that. Our team will work with yours to customize our features to work for you. To discuss your specific needs and determine pricing, schedule time with our team.

We partner with industry-leading companies that offer services and solutions tailored to the needs of construction professionals. From financial management and staffing to project optimization and marketing, our partners are carefully selected to align with our mission of empowering builders to succeed.

Each partnership provides exclusive services designed to save you time, reduce costs and improve the efficiency of your operations. These partnerships are built to complement Buildertrend’s software and help you achieve greater success.

No. Builders who aren’t using Buildertrend can use the services provided by these partners. However, these partnerships are highly beneficial for Buildertrend customers who are looking to maximize value and ensure business success with software.

Some partner services may have their own fees, but many offer exclusive discounts or benefits for Buildertrend users. Visit each partner’s page to learn more about their offerings and any associated costs.

Simply click the Contact Partner for the partner you’re interested in to learn more about their services. From there, you’ll find information on how to connect with them and take advantage of their offerings.

Absolutely! Our partnerships are designed to work together, giving you access to a wide range of resources to support your business’s needs.

Each partner has unique strengths and services. Browse the detailed descriptions on this page to find the ones that align best with your business goals and challenges.

We thoroughly vet each partner to ensure they meet our standards of excellence and share our commitment to helping construction businesses succeed.

You can explore detailed information about each partner on this page or visit the partner’s website to learn more.

Buildertrend’s pricing is tailored to meet the unique needs of your business. To determine the best solution and pricing for your company, we recommend connecting with one of our team members. They’ll work with you to understand your specific goals and requirements. Schedule a demo today to learn more.

Getting started with Buildertrend is quick and straightforward. Most builders can begin using the platform within a few days, thanks to our streamlined onboarding process and extensive support options. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way to ensure a smooth transition.

Tier 1 provides the foundational tools and resources to get started with Buildertrend, including self-paced courses, setup assistance and 24/7 support. Tier 2 offers all the benefits of Tier 1, plus personalized support with a dedicated account manager, customized success plans and quarterly check-ins to ensure your long-term success.

Yes, selecting a support tier is a required step to ensure you have the necessary resources and guidance for a successful Buildertrend experience. The support tiers are designed to help you make the most of Buildertrend and achieve your business goals, with tailored services based on your needs.

Yes, you can upgrade to Tier 2 to access enhanced support, including a dedicated account manager, quarterly check-ins and one-on-one training sessions.

You can analyze financial performance, project profitability, job costs, sales trends, team productivity and other critical business metrics.

Yes, it seamlessly integrates with accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero, ensuring accurate financial tracking.

If you’re an existing Buildertrend user, you can request access through your account representative or reach out to our support team.

No special training is required, but we provide tutorials and support to help you get the most out of the tool.

You can visit the Buildertrend Help Center, attend a webinar or contact our support team for personalized assistance.

Buildertrend provides a variety of training resources, including free webinars, self-paced online courses, daily virtual trainings and premium services like Onsite Consulting and Buildertrend University.

Yes! We offer live and on-demand webinars, how-to articles through our 24/7 Help Center, daily live group trainings and customer service through phone, email and chat at no additional cost. For more in-depth support, we also provide paid training options.

It depends on your needs. If you prefer self-paced learning, the Buildertrend Learning Academy offers structured courses designed to help you master specific features and earn role-based certifications. Need live instruction? Our live group trainings and webinars provide expert-led sessions on key topics and best practices. For in-depth, personalized support, Onsite Consulting delivers tailored, face-to-face guidance to optimize your workflows, while Buildertrend University offers immersive, expert-led training designed to help your entire team maximize the platform’s potential.

Yes. The majority of our training services are designed for your whole team. Whether it’s webinars, live group trainings or in-depth sessions at Buildertrend University, your team can learn together and apply best practices across your business. For a more customized approach, Onsite Consulting provides hands-on training tailored to your team’s specific workflows.

While our free training options provide a great foundation, paid services offer a deeper, more personalized learning experience. Whether it’s one-on-one coaching, hands-on consulting or in-depth workshops, these services help you implement best practices faster and maximize your ROI with Buildertrend.

Buildertrend is the leading construction management software designed to help established home builders, remodelers and specialty contractors streamline their entire business. From scheduling and budgeting to communication and payments, Buildertrend keeps everything organized in one platform – so you can take on more projects with less stress.