AI Tool Use Case: Builder.

The Challenge: Slow and Inaccurate Quoting Process

Builders in New Zealand often face challenges with slow and error-prone quoting processes. This manual work takes time, pulling resources from other important tasks like project management and securing new business. Inaccurate quotes can lead to reduced profits or lost clients. Clients also need timely and accurate quotes for their financial planning. In New Zealand's competitive construction market, efficient and reliable quoting is crucial for success.   

Solution Overview: AI-Powered Quoting for Efficiency and Accuracy

AI offers a way to automate and improve the speed and accuracy of quoting. AI tools can extract information from plans, calculate costs, and generate proposals. Using technologies like machine learning and natural language processing, AI can understand project needs from various sources, reducing manual work and errors. This leads to faster quote generation, better responsiveness, and improved accuracy through up-to-date pricing. Clients benefit from quicker, clearer estimates, and builders save time for project execution and growth.   

Tool: Handoff AI Estimating

Handoff AI Estimating  is a tool designed to simplify and speed up the estimating process for residential construction businesses, relevant for general builders in New Zealand. It generates detailed estimates quickly from project descriptions. It also includes a client management system (CRM) , automated proposal generation , invoicing , and project document organization. Its AI-powered change order feature further streamlines project management.   

Tool Description: AI-Powered Estimate Generation from Natural Language

Handoff AI uses natural language processing (NLP)  to understand project descriptions in everyday language. Builders can type or speak about the work, and the AI analyzes it using its training data, which includes material pricing and labor costs. This generates a detailed estimate that can be reviewed and customized by the builder. The AI system can learn and improve its accuracy over time, adapting to the New Zealand construction market.   

Tool Use Case: BuildRight NZ Streamlines Quoting with Handoff AI

• Business Name: BuildRight NZ

• Business Type: Builder

• The Problem: BuildRight NZ in Auckland spends significant time on manual quoting, leading to delays and potential inaccuracies.

• The Tool's Solution: BuildRight NZ uses Handoff AI. John describes a bathroom renovation: "Remove existing... install a new..." Handoff AI generates a detailed estimate.

• Expected Outcome:

  • For BuildRight NZ: John expects to reduce quoting time from two hours to 15-30 minutes, freeing up time for project management and new business. Professional AI-generated quotes will enhance BuildRight NZ's image.   

  • For BuildRight NZ's Clients: Clients will receive faster, clearer, and more detailed quotes, improving their experience.

• Potential ROI: Reduced quoting time allows BuildRight NZ to handle more requests, potentially doubling their win rate. Securing one extra $10,000 profit project per month could lead to an additional $120,000 annual profit, significantly outweighing the cost of Handoff AI.

Tool Pricing: Subscription-Based Model

Handoff AI offers two subscription plans :   

• Starter Plan: $39/month (annually billed) or $49/month (monthly billed), for one user, including core AI estimating, CRM, proposals, and invoicing.

• Business Plan: $119/month (annually billed) or $149/month (monthly billed), for up to three users, with all Starter features plus phone support, consultation calls, a success coach, and onboarding training.

Both plans include a 7-day free trial.   

Implementation: Simple Steps for a Quick Start

Implementing Handoff AI is designed to be simple.   

• Getting Started: Sign up for an account on the Handoff AI website, taking advantage of the 7-day free trial.

• Initial Setup: Provide basic business information.

• Describing Services and Materials: Input common services and material pricing. Handoff AI may have pre-populated New Zealand-specific data.

• Integration with Current Processes:

  • Google Workspace: Export proposals and quotes for easy sharing via Gmail and management in Google Sheets.

  • XERO: Handoff AI integrates with QuickBooks Online , similar to XERO, for seamless invoice syncing.   

  • Social Media: Share professional proposals with potential clients.

• Rough Timeframes:

  • Setup: Less than an hour.

  • Basic Training: A few hours, with resources provided, especially with the Business plan.

• Smooth Implementation Ideas:

  • Start with common quoting scenarios.

  • Utilize the 7-day free trial fully.

  • Consider the Business plan for initial onboarding support.

Outcome: Time Savings, Cost Reduction, and Improved Customer Satisfaction

Implementing Handoff AI is projected to bring significant benefits to BuildRight NZ.

• Time Savings: Reducing quoting time by 7.5-8.75 hours per week allows John to focus on other business areas.

• Money Savings: At an estimated $50/hour for John's time, this could save $375 weekly or $19,500 annually. More accurate quotes also prevent underpricing.   

• Projected Return on Investment (ROI): The Business plan costs $1428 annually, while potential savings are $19,500, resulting in an ROI of approximately 1265%. The Starter plan offers an even higher ROI.

• AI-Powered vs. Standard Tools: Handoff AI's intelligent automation through NLP sets it apart from standard templates. It understands natural language, learns over time, and accesses real-time pricing, offering greater efficiency and accuracy.   

Next Steps

See how Handoff AI Estimating can transform your quoting process with a free audit. We'll analyze your current workflow and show you how AI can save you time and improve efficiency. Following the audit, we'll offer a complimentary follow-up consultation to discuss implementation. Don't let slow quoting hinder your business growth. Embrace AI for a tangible impact on your profitability and client satisfaction.