Time for a new Sketch Software

[jhillas]

I have been using DCSketch since the 1980s and am thinking its time for a new option.

They converted the old DOS based sketch program to Windows for some old-timers, but its acting recently like it may not be happy with the change from XP to Windows 7.

I have browsed a bit, and searched, and do not really see any threads on sketch software. Are all of the options basically integrated with a form prep software like ACI or Total, etc.?

Might any of you know of a good, easy to use, basic sketch program?

 

[Fargo1]

Do you use forms software or narrative. If you use forms software, you'll first have to ask yourself if you want integration with your forms software. If so you will be limited to what they offer. Total and ACI offer their own sketch programs. I think WCA and SFREP have their own stuff too. Bradford does not have a sketcher and requires a 3rd party sketcher. The sketchers that I have seen most often are Rapid sketch, Phoenix, and Apex. There are others too like Winsketch, but I don't hear much about them anymore. If you don't need to integrate with your software, just do an internet search. There are lots of sketching programs out there. But they don't all calculate sq ft. So test them out good with a trial first. If your using forms software, I would recommend seeing who the integrate with and keep those options on your short list.

 

[jhillas]

Thank you so much. I left out that important part; narrative only, no form software. I will google some...

 

[Fargo1]

Yeah narrative will give you lots of options. Call alamode and see if they will sell you a stand alone version of their sketch software. I think its the best I've ever used. Years ago I used to use something called 3DHome Architect V2.0 from Borderbond. It worked great. I'm not sure what the newer versions are like, but there are lots out there. There is an open source one as well called Sweethome 3D that is nice, but last time I checked it didn't calculate sq ft. Most of the home sketching stuff is in 3D for home owners to play with things.

Also look for sketching software. I think autocad used to have a sketch software. Maybe google too.

 

[Fargo1]

Here is one I came across some time back. It seemed decent, but I can't remember why I didn't use it. Maybe because I wanted integration.
http://ezblueprint.com/

 

[Jo Ann Meyer Stratton]

I highly recommend Apex, I have been using it since 1987 and it has always been great, easy and fun to use. It also includes a survey module to sketch legal descriptions or odd shaped buildings. Apex can be used as a stand alone program or all the residential software programs.

 

[Terrel L. Shields]

There are others too like Winsketch, but I don't hear much about them anymore

I would switch to Apex, but honestly my ancient Winsketch program still works even on Win 7 and until it stops working, I will use it. And since I don't "do" forms, and don't even have a software program as of now, I can copy and paste into my exhibits section just fine. Further, half or more of my projects don't require a sketch because there is no building. But I have used Apex when my helper had a copy of it years ago, and I like it and it's probably the very best out there. If you are a pro, it is the way to go and integrates with about everyone's programs.

 

[Tim The Enchanter]

Alamode has a free sketcher you can use stand alone.
I use it as part of their program, but sometimes used an older version for tough sketches when I previously used ACI.
Works pretty well, and the price is right.

http://www.alamode.com/common/store/appraisers.aspx

 

[jhillas]

Thanks everyone. I have a friend who is going to show me Apex tomorrow. I will also check out the free sketcher at alamode (thanks!)