Clear Estimates

What Clear Estimates is

Clear Estimates gives small remodelers a library of pre-built project templates — a bathroom remodel, a deck, a basement finish — priced with regional cost data that updates quarterly. You adjust the template rather than building from zero, which is how a small contractor can produce a credible estimate in under an hour.

What it does well

• Pre-built remodeling project templates
• Regional cost data updated quarterly
• Clean client-facing proposal output
• Low cost relative to full estimating platforms

Integrates with

QuickBooks Online

Integration lists change often and "integrates" can mean anything from a real two-way sync to a one-way push through Zapier. Ask the vendor which fields move, in which direction, and how often.

Before you commit

• Decide whether you need speed (same-day quotes from the truck) or depth (line-item takeoff from plans). Tools that do both well are rare.
• Make sure the sell price is driven by your overhead number, not a vendor default markup.
• If it includes a cost database, ask how often it is updated and whether it covers your region.
• Check that options and change orders survive a customer saying "what about the other finish?"
• Confirm the quote pushes into your job management system rather than needing re-entry.

How to judge it in a trial

Run one real job through it end to end — not the demo data. Quote it, schedule it, do it, invoice it, take the payment. Then ask the only question that matters on day 400: did the people who have to use this every day find it faster than what they do now? Friction you notice in week one compounds forever, and tool-hopping costs more than any feature gap.