Using Quote Templates and AI Assistant

If you're quoting similar types of work regularly — kitchens, bathrooms, decks, additions — you shouldn't have to build every quote from scratch. Quote templates and the AI assistant are two powerful tools that help you create accurate estimates faster.

Who Can Access This

Admin, Team Member, and Field User can all use templates when creating quotes. Only Admin users can create, edit, or delete templates in Settings.

Quote Templates

What Are Templates?

A quote template is a saved set of line items that you can load into any new quote with one click. Think of it as a starting recipe — you load it, then adjust the ingredients (quantities, pricing, descriptions) for the specific job.

Creating a Template

1. Navigate to Settings > Templates > Quotes tab.
2. Click "New Template".
3. Fill in the template details:
   • Name — Give it a descriptive name (e.g., "Standard Kitchen Remodel", "Deck Build - Composite", "Bathroom Gut Renovation").
   • Project Type (optional) — Link the template to a specific project type. When someone creates a quote for that project type, this template will be suggested first.
   • Line Items — Add the items you typically include for this type of work. Each line item has the same fields as a regular quote: product/service name, description, quantity, unit price, and amount.
   • Default Tax % — Set the tax percentage that should apply by default.
4. Click Save.

Editing and Deleting Templates

Go back to Settings > Templates > Quotes tab at any time to:

• Edit a template — Update line items, pricing, or the linked project type as your business evolves.
• Delete a template — Remove templates you no longer use.

Pro Tip: Review your templates quarterly. Material prices change, labor rates shift, and you may have added new services. Keeping templates current means your quotes start from an accurate baseline.

Using a Template on a Quote

1. Start creating a new quote (from the Quotes page or from a lead).
2. Click "Load Template".
3. Select the template you want to use.
4. The line items from the template populate your quote automatically.
5. Modify quantities, pricing, and descriptions as needed for this specific project.
6. Add or remove line items to match the actual scope.

If you linked a template to a project type, BuilderMate will suggest that template first when you're quoting a project of the matching type — saving you an extra click.

AI Quote Assistant

What Is It?

The AI Quote Assistant generates suggested line items based on a plain-language description of the project. It's like having an experienced estimator give you a quick rough draft.

How to Use It

1. On the Create Quote page, click the AI button (the magic wand icon).
2. Describe the project in natural language. Be as specific as helpful:
   • "10x12 kitchen remodel with new cabinets, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, and LVP flooring"
   • "Build a 16x20 composite deck with stairs and railing"
   • "Full bathroom renovation including new tub, tile shower, vanity, and heated floors"
3. The AI processes your description and returns a list of suggested line items — complete with estimated quantities and pricing.
4. Review each suggestion. For each one, you can:
   • Add it to your quote as-is.
   • Modify the quantity, price, or description before adding.
   • Skip items that don't apply.

The AI adapts its suggestions based on your region and project type, so the results should be reasonably relevant to your market.

Good to Know: AI suggestions are designed to give you a fast starting point. They are not a substitute for your expertise. Always review and adjust pricing to match your actual material costs, labor rates, and profit margins.

When to Use AI vs. Templates

| Scenario | Best Tool | |---|---| | You quote this type of work regularly with predictable line items | Template — faster and already tuned to your pricing | | You're quoting a unique or unusual project | AI Assistant — generates a starting point from scratch | | You want a rough draft to refine | AI Assistant — quick ideation | | You want consistency across your team's quotes | Template — everyone starts from the same baseline |

You can also combine both: load a template for the base scope, then use the AI assistant to suggest line items for add-on work.

Related Articles

• Creating an Estimate / Quote
• Quote Settings