WinTOTAL and SwiftEstimator integrated for fast, professional
cost reports
WinTOTAL’s Athena and Aurora versions are now integrated with Marshall & Swift’s SwiftEstimator. Our integration allows you to launch the SwiftEstimator.com site within WinTOTAL and then transfer the completed cost estimate back into your report directly.
Why it’s better
Because SwiftEstimator is online you don't have quarterly CD's to load, calculators to find, handbooks to update or builders to contact, and it's always current nationwide. SwiftEstimator has real-time, accurate cost data that you can adjust for residential styles, square footage and component quality. It's also integrated with WinTOTAL, so you don't have to waste time retyping data into your report or starting up different programs and you don't have to pull in the cost report’s PDF manually. Another thing appraisers really like is that the final result is much more professional looking than the PDFs you may be adding to your appraisals now.
Who it’s ideal for
It’s a great tool for appraisers who occasionally do full cost approaches, have to include full cost documentation and want to reduce the manual steps. On the other hand, if you’re including cost data often, Marshall & Swift's CD product provides unlimited access, so it's probably a better value for your situation. One advantage to our pricing is that it doesn't require a big up-front investment. You can start with a lower cost pack and then purchase more packs after you've had a chance to use it. Our solution is pay-as-you-go, so you don't have to worry about doing enough cost approaches to justify a CD or book purchase.
How some appraisers use it to make more money
Many lenders are requesting cost approaches so the insurance company can use the appraisal as the insurance inspection quote. Some appraisers charge for two assignments: A standard appraisal minus the cost data, and a consulting assignment ($50-$75 most likely) which includes the cost approach. It’s a good way of offering more diverse services and it makes the SwiftEstimator cost a good investment.
The bottom line is it's your choice whether to include the cost approach. If you do choose to include it on some of your reports, we’re making it easier than ever with WinTOTAL's new SwiftEstimator integration.
to see how our SwiftEstimator integration works.
to check out frequently asked questions.
to view the SwiftEstimator manual. |
