Drawing Software...

hagelberger

Hey fellow contractors...

We are a small residential contractor.

We are looking to get into the drawings side of the business to render our drawings to potential customers.

What software programs do you recommend and why?

Will the problem use IBM compatible or Mac computers?

We have very little CAD experience, but I do pick up programs fairly quickly.

A couple of weeks ago I saw Chief Architect 10 full version...I know it's an older version, is that a good option or can that software be bought and upgraded???

Thanks and I look forward to your input...

John

ohiohomedoctor

Lots of discussion on that subject here. Use the search function. Chief Architect is among the best if you can afford it. $$$$

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griz

Contact Scipio Africanus (Andy).

He'll set you straight...

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MLandry

Take a look at Softplan. I have been using it for years with excellent
results.

Mike

redwood

I think that if you purchase Chief 10, you will have to put the license in your name. I'm sure you could then upgrade it, but what cost savings you would receive, I don't know. They are up to vers. 14.

You can upgrade via the Home series of Chief's products, as well. If you buy them through Amazon, it will save you a couple of bucks.

You might get your feet wet trying Home Designer Pro 2012, which functions like the full vers., for under $ 500. minus a few desireable functions. They also have full trial versions for free. But you can't print and possibly save.

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Mark
Los Gatos, CA
www.creative-redwood-designs.com

Kent Whitten

Nothing personal, but I was NOT impressed with this software. I gave it about 2 years and I could see that the pain was not going to let up. I found it quite frustrating to work with and I have worked with alot of programs.

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MLandry

Not a problem. That is why we have choices. What works for some may not work for others. I have been using it for about ten years
and I have no problem recommending it. I know of a Chief user that
expressed quite a bit of frustration with that software also.

Mike

Champ1Construct

Try using Revit Architecture. It takes some getting use to but once the floor plan is done and walls are put in, the elevations are done for you already. The rendering makes any plan come to life and if you get advanced, you can actually set up coordinates and place the rendered product on the site. Good luck!!

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