What to look for in general contracting software
Four things that separate software that fits a general contracting business from a generic app.
Trade-specific tools, not a generic app
Generic platforms treat every trade the same. Look for general contracting-specific workflows — for general contracting that means multi-phase project management — so the software fits how you actually work.
Per-business pricing, not per-user
Per-user pricing punishes you for growing. Flat per-business pricing keeps costs predictable as you add techs — a real difference once you're past a couple of people.
AI that removes admin, not just dashboards
The biggest wins now are AI that answers calls 24/7, drafts estimates, and chases invoices — work that used to need an office person. Look past "AI insights" for AI that does the work.
Fast setup and a mobile app techs will use
If onboarding takes months or the field app is clunky, adoption stalls. Favor tools that set up in days and put scheduling, invoicing, and photos in one mobile app.
The main general contracting software options
Hero365All-in-one · AI-native
$19.99–349/mo per businessAI-native all-in-one built for general contracting: 24/7 AI voice agent, AI back-office staff, trade-specific tools, and flat per-business pricing with no per-user fees.
Buildertrend
Custom quote (was $499–1,099/mo)The catch: Construction-only — no AI staff or voice booking
Hero365 vs Buildertrend →Procore
Enterprise $$$The catch: Built for big GCs — overkill and pricey for small shops
Hero365 vs Procore →ServiceTitan
$600–900/user/moThe catch: Service-first, weak project management, expensive
Hero365 vs ServiceTitan →Competitor pricing and limitations as published; check each vendor's site for current details.
Best general contracting software: FAQ
What is the best software for general contracting contractors?
The best general contracting software depends on your team size and how much you want automated. Hero365 is a strong all-in-one choice for general contracting contractors who want AI built in — a 24/7 voice agent, trade-specific tools, and flat per-business pricing ($19.99–349/mo). Other options worth comparing include Buildertrend, Procore, ServiceTitan; weigh them on trade-specific features, real AI, and whether pricing is per-user or per-business.
How much does general contracting software cost?
General Contracting software pricing varies widely — for example, Buildertrend at Custom quote (was $499–1,099/mo) and Procore at Enterprise $$$. Many tools charge per user, so the bill climbs as you add techs. Hero365 is a flat $19.99–349/mo per business with no per-user fees, so the cost doesn't grow with your crew.
What should general contracting contractors look for in software?
Look for four things: trade-specific tools built for general contracting (not a generic app), per-business rather than per-user pricing, AI that removes admin work (answering calls, drafting estimates, chasing invoices), and a mobile app your techs will actually use in the field.
What are the alternatives to Buildertrend for general contracting?
The main Buildertrend alternatives for general contracting contractors include Hero365, Procore, and ServiceTitan. Hero365 stands out for including a 24/7 AI voice agent and AI back-office staff at flat per-business pricing, where most alternatives charge per user and sell AI as add-ons.
See Hero365 run your general contracting business
No per-user fees · Cancel anytime