National Building Cost Guide (Craftsman)

[TerryRohrer]

Has anyone used their software program? I tried it long ago and thought it was a bit clunky, but didn't give it a fair chance. Just wondering if it is worth getting the paper book w/ free software, or just do the pdf version again, at about half the cost.

 

[Mejappz]

I have used both the software and the book for several years. The software is user-friendly and easier to operate than Swift estimator. It generates a PDF report that can be edited in MS Word or a PDF editor. The online version of the software performs faster but costs $20.00 per month and lacks features for commercial properties and manufactured housing.

 

[TerryRohrer]

I have used both the software and the book for several years. The software is user-friendly and easier to operate than Swift estimator. It generates a PDF report that can be edited in MS Word or a PDF editor. The online version of the software performs faster but costs $20.00 per month and lacks features for commercial properties and manufactured housing.

View attachment 98327

Thanks, good info. Do they, by chance, have anything pertaining specifically to barndominiums?

 

[Bobby Bucks]

I use it, it comes free with Solomon. $15 a month, no long term contract. It's good for tract homes and quality up to Q2. It's easy to use. Not so good with super custom Q1 , but then what is?

 

[Mejappz]

Thanks, good info. Do they, by chance, have anything pertaining specifically to barndominiums?

I don't think so, but I don't have the book with me right now. I will check it this afternoon.

 

[Mejappz]

By the way if you go online and ask them they will give 10% off the book and software.

 

[Mejappz]

Thanks, good info. Do they, by chance, have anything pertaining specifically to barndominiums?

They do not have a section on barndominiums. These appear to be becoming more popular, I've seen them on HGTV. They do have general-purpose barns and pole barns. I also checked the Residential Cost book, which is three years old, and it does not have a section on barndominiums either.

 

[Joe Flacco]

I'm surprised that they say a garage costs $10,886.

 

[Mejappz]

That is based on what quality you rate the garage at.