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How to Prepare an Estimate

Create an estimate from a template or simply start with a blank estimate to begin building the costings for your project

Updated this week

In this article, you will learn:


The overall estimate process in JACK App

ℹ️Start your Estimate by either selecting a saved template or building one from scratch. This ensures all your required cost categories are ready from the beginning.

Next, add your cost items. Use the Take-Off tool to calculate measurements directly from your plans, providing accurate material quantities straight into your estimate.

To stay organised, the Checklist feature helps you confirm that nothing is missed.

For supplier pricing, head to the Request for Quote (RFQ) tab, where you can send quote requests linked directly to your budget. Once accepted, these flow seamlessly into future purchase orders.

When your estimate is complete, create a Proposal to send to your client. If your client asks for changes, you can manage these through Cost Options. Once the client makes their choices, the estimate automatically updates.

You can then apply either a Global Markup or set item-specific markups to finalise your pricing.

When the client approves the proposal, simply convert your estimate into a Job. From here, JACK App gives you full financial tracking and visibility across the entire build.

How to create different versions of an estimate

ℹ️ Using multiple versions is an effective way to handle requests for different options requested by the customer. For example, version 1 includes an alfresco and version 2 includes a carport instead of a garage.

How to create a proposal from an estimate

ℹ️ Watch this short video on how to create a proposal from an estimate.

How to Print or Export your estimate to a PDF or .CSV file

ℹ️ To export your estimate costings, navigate to Estimate > Costings within the relevant estimate.

Click Actions on the top right corner of your screen, and a drop-down will appear. You can choose to Print Costings. Alternatively, you can also Export Costings as a CSV or PDF to be easily shared with your staff or clients.

Check out this article on Creating Estimate Templates.

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