Buildertrend Review - Features, Pricing & Deals

Buildertrend serves as a cloud-based construction management software that helps construction companies streamline their daily operations. The platform brings together essential tools for project management, client communication, and financial tracking in one accessible interface.

Built for home builders, remodelers, and contractors, this software handles everything from initial planning to final payment processing. Users can manage schedules, create estimates, track budgets, and communicate with clients all from a central dashboard. The platform also includes features for document storage, time tracking, and material procurement.

Small and medium-sized construction businesses will find familiar tools for handling daily tasks. The software offers client portals, team messaging, and financial management features. It also connects with common accounting programs like QuickBooks and Xero to help keep finances organized.

Plans start at $499 per month, with different tiers available based on business needs. New users can try out the platform through a free trial, while subcontractors can access basic features at no cost when invited by existing users.

• Comprehensive Project Management: Streamline construction projects with a centralized platform that manages scheduling, task assignments, and progress tracking for builders and contractors.
• Enhanced Client Communication: Access a dedicated client portal that allows real-time project updates, electronic contract signing, and seamless interaction throughout the construction process.
• Financial Tracking and Budgeting: Monitor project costs, generate accurate estimates, process invoices, and manage budgets with integrated financial management tools.
• Advanced Collaboration Features: Communicate instantly with team members, subcontractors, and clients through built-in chat and messaging systems, ensuring everyone stays informed.
• Time and Labor Management: Track employee hours, manage payroll, and monitor labor costs with the intuitive Time Clock and timesheet management features.
• Customer Relationship Management: Capture and manage leads, track customer interactions, and streamline the bidding process with a robust CRM system.
• Mobile Accessibility: Access project details, communicate with teams, and manage workflows from anywhere using Android and iOS mobile applications.

• Essential Plan starts at $499 per month, includes scheduling, to-do lists, customer portal, and proposals, with a $300 first-month discount available.
• Advanced Plan costs $799 per month, offering advanced estimating, change orders, takeoff, and financial management features, also with a $300 first-month discount.
• Complete Plan priced at $1,099 per month provides the most comprehensive features, including selections, warranties, and detailed reports, with a $300 first-month discount.
• Buildertrend Boost optional add-on available for an additional $100 per month, or free with an annual subscription, includes one-on-one coaching and personalized success planning.

Buildertrend stands out for its all-in-one approach to construction management. Unlike some competitors that focus on specific aspects like scheduling or client management, Buildertrend covers nearly everything in one platform. It's particularly strong for small to mid-sized construction companies who need comprehensive tools without multiple subscriptions. The software isn't as customizable as enterprise solutions like Procore, but it offers better value for most residential builders and remodelers. Users often mention that Buildertrend has a shorter learning curve compared to more complex alternatives, making it easier to implement across teams with varying tech skills.

Yes, clients can access Buildertrend through a dedicated Client Portal. After you invite them, clients can log in to view project updates, photos, documents, schedules, and selections you've shared with them. They can approve change orders, make payments, and communicate with your team all in one place. You control exactly what information is visible to clients, so sensitive details like internal costs can remain private. Many builders report that this transparency helps reduce client calls and texts since customers can check progress on their own time. However, note that the basic plan only allows one login per client, which can be limiting for couples or business partners.

Most users find Buildertrend fairly easy to learn, even for team members who aren't comfortable with technology. The interface is straightforward, with clear navigation and helpful prompts throughout. That said, there is a learning curve, especially when first setting up projects and workflows. Buildertrend offers free training resources including video tutorials, webinars, and a knowledge base. Many construction companies start by having one tech-savvy person learn the system thoroughly, then gradually train others on just the features they'll use daily. The mobile app simplifies things further for field workers who mainly need to check schedules, log time, or upload photos.

The mobile app offers convenient access to key features, but it has mixed reviews for reliability. Field teams can view schedules, upload photos, log time, access documents, and communicate with the office. However, users report occasional sync issues, especially in areas with spotty cell service. Some features work differently or have fewer options than the desktop version, which can frustrate users who switch between both. The app works best when used for simple daily tasks rather than complex project management. If your team will rely heavily on mobile access, it's worth having them test the app thoroughly during your trial period to make sure it meets their specific needs.

Buildertrend integrates directly with QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, and Xero, which covers the accounting needs of most construction companies. These integrations allow you to sync financial data like invoices, bills, and purchase orders between systems, reducing double entry and errors. The depth of integration varies by accounting platform, with QuickBooks Online offering the most comprehensive connection. For other accounting software, you may need to export data manually or use third-party connection tools. Many users find the financial tools within Buildertrend sufficient for project-based tracking, while using the integrations to maintain their formal accounting records separately.