How to use Xactimate for Accurate Construction Cost Estimation

How to use Xactimate for Accurate Construction Cost Estimation

Xactimate is one of the most reliable and accurate software programs, and with Xactimate Estimating, you can estimate the costs of construction repair as well as redevelopment. Another prominent feature of this software is that it is suitable for both residential and commercial projects. This is because Xactimate can correlate with each detail of the presented plan. Thus, giving a quick overview and a fast estimate accurately.


Before delving into how Xactimate helps construction cost estimation, let's get to know what it is.


An Introduction to Xactimate

It is a comprehensive software that is used by various construction professionals, from insurance adjusters to contractors. This software helps to create detailed repair and renovation estimates for a project. Furthermore, it allows us to estimate the costs of materials, labour, and equipment for a project. Not only this, but it also enables the user to document every aspect in an organized manner.


But certain step-by-step guidelines must be followed to ensure that your Xactimate estimate is accurate. The discussion below will help you navigate through these guidelines. 


Xactimate Estimating Guide

Here are the detailed guidelines to prepare a construction cost estimate through the Xactimate Estimating Guide:


Set Up Your Account

The first step is to set up your account in Xactimate software. For this, you will have to choose the plan that is suitable for your needs. Once you have chosen a plan, the next move is to put in your credentials and log into the Xactimate platform.


Interface Overview

The second step involves getting familiar with Xactimate's interface. There are certain sections that you have to get familiar with for working with this software. These are as follows:


Start a New Project

Once an account is set up, an interface has been established. The next step is to start your project by entering in detail, such as the type of work, address, etc. After that, you will add estimated items from a list available on the Xactimate platform. 


Add Prices

One Xactimate feature that stands out is the regular updating of prices. This means that the cost estimate of the items will be as current as possible. So, it is important for you to use the latest pricing list.


Using the Sketch Tool

If the construction work that you are estimating involves any kind of structural changes, then use a sketching tool. Xactime provides you with a built-in sketching tool, so you are able to visualize what scope of work you are dealing with and obtain precise measurements. 


Review Your Estimate

This is as important as creating an estimate. Make sure that you have reviewed the cost estimate in its entirety. For this, you have to review each selected item and check for any missing elements. Luckily, Xactimate provides you with validation tools to check for any missing elements or errors. 


Create a Report

Once you are satisfied that everything is up to the standard, create a cost estimation report. This can be done by using the Report's features of Xactimate. It is also important to mention that you can customize this report as per your requirements.

Now you are familiar with Xactimate guidelines to estimate the cost of a construction project. Let's learn how cost estimating services can be improved with Xactimate. 


Best Practices for Improving Xactimate Estimating Services

The following points will help you understand how professional are able to create precise budgets.So, let's get to it:


Stay Updated

You have to make sure that your Xactimate software is being regularly updated. This is because it assures that the pricing information is current and you have the latest features.


Seek Extra Help

Building on the above, if Xactimate is evolving constantly, then you also have to elevate your skills. This can be done by investing in training programs offered by Xactware. 


Other than that you can also outsource your work to Xactimate Estimating Services and get your hands off the tough work!


Use Integration to your advantage

Xactimate is capable of integrating with other construction software. So, use those features to your advantage and integrate Xactimate with other construction-related software. Either it can be construction management or accounting software. This will not only increase the chances of accuracy but also streamline the whole process.


Final Thoughts

In the end, Xactimate Estimating methods offer countless benefits for estimating the cost of a construction project. Not only will this software provide you with the latest information. But it will also save you time and money preparing an estimate. On top of that, this software offers impeccable organizing and managing of the estimates.


Furthermore, the number of professionals using this software is increasing rapidly. Apart from that, to understand how this software works and helps you to carry out cost estimation seamlessly, this article provides all the essential step-by-step details.