Adding Estimate Line Items

To enter new line item costs to an estimate, follow these steps:

1. Click one of the pop-up buttons to see a pop-up menu of possible construction items.
2. Choose an item from the menu by moving the mouse over it (continue holding down the mouse button).
3. When you release the mouse button, the selected item will be added to the bid as a new line item cost.

Adjusting Specification Quantities

When you first use BidMagic estimating software to add a new item, its quantity will be locked. The padlock icon will be visible, and a 'suggested' quantity (based on measurements in Dimensions) will be displayed.

NOTE: If the item has no 'suggested' formula, it will not be locked, and will not have a padlock. In that case, enter your own quantity for the item.

If you go back and change any dimensions after entering Specifications, all locked quantities will be adjusted automatically.

EXAMPLE: Changing the ceiling height will also change the required quantities of framing, wallboard, siding, insulation, and paint. The quantity of any locked item in Specifications will be adjusted to match.

If you'd like to use a number other than the 'suggested' amount, unlock the padlock and change the number. An unlocked quantity is not affected by changes in Dimensions.

HINT: To unlock the padlock, hold down the Option or Command key while you click on it.

To re-lock an unlocked quantity, hold down the Command key and click on the nudge button. If you lock the padlock again, the suggested quantity will return.

NOTE: Black-and-white nudge buttons have no 'suggested' quantity, and cannot be locked (see page 86).