When Excel is enough
If you write a few estimates a month, work alone and clients only need a PDF, Excel may be all you need. It is flexible, familiar and costs nothing extra.
When Excel stops being enough
- Estimates are copied from old files and prices go stale or get mixed up.
- It is unclear which version of the estimate was approved.
- Extra works are noted separately and cannot be traced to the invoice.
- Payments live in another spreadsheet and the balance is only in your head.
- Several people work and each has their own file.
- Clients write "send it again" because they cannot find the email.
Eight criteria for judging software
- Rate library: can you keep your own rates and use them quickly?
- Building the estimate: are totals automatic and is it easy to edit on a phone?
- Client side: does the client have to register or is a link enough?
- Approval: is it recorded who approved, when and which version?
- Extra works: can you capture them on site with a photo?
- Payments: do you see the deposit, stages and balance for each job?
- Documents: is there a PDF with your logo and details, and an e-signature?
- Price and limits: what does a month cost, how many jobs and staff are allowed and can you cancel any time?
What to ask before buying
- Is there a free trial and is a card required?
- Where is the data stored and can I export it?
- Is the price with or without VAT?
- What happens if I exceed the plan (job or staff limits)?
- Is it suited to my work: private clients or public procurement?
About manoobjektas.lt
This guide was written by the manoobjektas.lt team, so naturally we talk about our own tool. It is built for contractors working with private and business clients: job sites, crew, estimates from your own rates, client approval by link, extra works with a photo, payments, e-signature and a public profile.
It is not suitable for public procurement estimates, which follow prescribed forms. Plans: Contractor €49/month, Contractor Pro €99/month, Contractor Max €149/month (prices exclude VAT, yearly billing is cheaper). The first 7 days are free and no card is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep using my Excel rates?
Yes. You enter your rate library yourself or start from a Lithuanian list of work rates and adjust the prices to your own.
Does the client need to register?
No. The client gets a link by SMS or email, opens the estimate on a phone or computer and approves with one tap.
How much does estimating software for contractors cost?
Prices vary. manoobjektas.lt plans start at €49 per month excluding VAT, and the first 7 days are free with no card.