SimplyWise Cost Estimator FAQs


Cost Estimator

Deleted estimates cannot be recovered. We recommend creating a folder called “Archive” for estimates you might want to reference later, rather than permanently deleting them. You can add a new folder by tapping the pencil icon on the homescreen and following the prompts.

Yes, you can upload multiple pictures. When generating a new estimate, you can include a maximum of 4 images.

Once the estimate is saved, you can add more photos (and render them!) by tapping into the saved estimate, and then tapping on the photos icon at the top.

Also, when sharing your estimate, you’ll be able to attach more images to the shared estimate.

Currently, the app doesn’t support creating estimates from video, but we hope to offer this soon!

In the meantime, you have several options:

  • Photos — Take photos during the estimate creation process
  • Image Renders — Add photos and render them to show clients what to expect
  • Room Scan — Use LiDAR to capture measurements (iOS Pro devices)
  • Blueprints/Plans — Upload existing blueprints or floor plans
  • Voice-to-Text — Describe the project using your voice

We’re working on adding video support in the near future! 😊

📌 Need more help? Check out our video tutorial library for step-by-step walkthroughs!

To generate the labor by the square foot, you can enter those details into the Project Description field when inputting all of the details for your estimate.

Alternatively, you can manually calculate the labor based on your measurements and add that as a line item.  To add a line item, tap +Item to add the labor charge.

1. Tap the blue “+” button on the bottom of the homescreen, and then tap Estimate from the pop up menu.

2. Enter your project details on the description page. For maximum accuracy, be as specific as possible and include any relevant measurements that you have. (Note that the app can not automatically “read” measurements from a photo. For now, you have to manually input all measurements.)

3. Optionally add photos or blueprints if desired.

4. Once completed, tap the arrow button in the upper right-hand corner.

5. Answer any clarifying questions.

6. Review the draft estimate and tap to edit any material, labor or fee items. (The app will learn from your edits.)

7. Save to your preferred folder category (we recommend creating folders by project or client).

8. Share with your client via email or other sharing options.

While the app doesn’t have a traditional template feature, you can easily reuse a previous estimate as a starting point for new projects.

To use an existing estimate as a template:

  1. Navigate to the folder containing the estimate you want to use as a base
  2. Tap the three dots in the upper right corner of the estimate
  3. Select “Duplicate”
  4. Edit the duplicated estimate with new client information and project details
  5. Adjust line items as needed for the new project

Pro tip: Create a folder called “Templates” and save your most commonly used estimate types there for quick access when starting similar projects.

We also have a video library filled with quick tutorials that walk through the app’s features. 📌 Link here

When you generate a new estimate again, you should see a pop-up asking if you want to continue with (or delete) your previous draft. Simply tap “Continue” and you’ll be able to resume working on your last estimate. The app automatically saves your progress so you can pick up where you left off.

You can input the hourly rate in the project description field when inputting your scope of work, or you can tap into each line item and make adjustments there.

Be sure to check out our video library filled with quick tutorials that walk through the app’s features

📌 Link here: https://www.youtube.com/@simplywise-estimates/videos

The app is designed for various projects, from small homeowner DIY jobs to large commercial construction projects. It also supports estimating for low voltage installations, cleaning, landscaping, and hardscaping projects.

Many of our customers tell us they use the app for projects even beyond the app’s intended purposes, e.g. autobody work. We recommend trying any kind of project with the app to see how it works for you!

This rating of your project description is based on how much detail you have provided. Including more information in the project description (including adding any photos/blueprints you may have) will improve the accuracy of your estimate. However, you can ‘submit’ a project description even if the app rates it as “Poor” but may not get the best estimate. The key to a solid estimate is a detailed and thorough project description.

Our estimates are based on real market data tailored to your region. We use national construction pricing databases and adjust for regional cost differences automatically.

To get the most accurate estimates:

– Be specific in your project description: include project type, materials, and location (city or zip code).

– Add your business location in “Business Info” in the menu

– Edit any line items manually after generating the estimate, and the app will learn from your edits.

This ensures the estimate reflects your actual cost and scope of work.

Keywords: where do your prices come from; where do you get your data; how are prices calculated

Our app generates initial cost estimates based on general market data for your area. You can improve accuracy by entering your business location in the menu under “Business Info”.

You can also adjust any prices that don’t match your expectations by tapping into an items and directly adjusting the quantity or price.

The app learns from your edits, so estimates will improve over time.

If you’re having trouble creating new estimates, please confirm the following:

1. You are on a stable internet connection

2. Your trial period is active

3. Your subscription is current

If you do have stable internet, and your subscription is in fact active but you still can’t create a new estimate, let us know – there could be a bug for us to look into.

If you’re having trouble saving estimates, please check your internet connection: A stable connection is required to save estimates.

Previous

Next