Time spent on paperwork reduces billable hours. Voice quoting technology compresses quote creation from hours to minutes by converting spoken descriptions into structured documents.
What is Voice Quoting?
Voice quoting uses speech recognition to convert verbal job descriptions into formatted, professional quotes. Instead of typing on a phone or waiting to create quotes at a computer, you describe the work verbally.
The system recognizes contractor terminology—materials, labor rates, quantities—and organizes everything into line items. You review, adjust as needed, and send to your client. The process typically takes under 2 minutes.
The average contractor saves 5+ hours per week by switching from manual to voice-powered quoting.
Why Contractors Use Voice Quoting
Speed
Most quotes take under 2 minutes from start to finish. Speaking is faster than typing on a phone keyboard, especially in the field.
Accuracy
Automated line item extraction reduces errors and forgotten items. Describing work naturally keeps you focused on the job scope rather than data entry mechanics.
Consistency
Every quote uses the same professional format with your branding. Consistent formatting and clear line items are generated automatically.
On-Site Capability
You can quote while still with the client. When a homeowner asks about additional work, you can provide an itemized answer immediately.
How to Use Voice Quoting Effectively
1. Describe the Job Naturally
You don't need to speak in any special format. Just describe what you'd tell a colleague:
"Replace the kitchen faucet, Delta brand, about $150 for the part.
Two hours labor at $85 per hour. Also need to replace the supply lines,
maybe $30 for those."
2. Review and Adjust
After speaking, SemaQuote converts your description into structured line items:
| Item | Category | Qty | Rate | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta kitchen faucet | Material | 1 | $150.00 | $150.00 |
| Faucet installation labor | Labor | 2 hrs | $85.00 | $170.00 |
| Supply line replacement | Material | 1 | $30.00 | $30.00 |
You can tap any line to adjust quantities, rates, or descriptions before sending.
3. Add Client Details
Once your line items look good, add the client information. If you've worked with them before, their details are already saved. New client? Just speak their name and address.
4. Send Instantly
Hit send and your client receives a professional PDF quote via email or SMS. They can accept it with an electronic signature right from their phone.
Best Practices for Voice Quoting
Be Specific About Materials
Instead of saying "install a faucet," say "install a Delta Essa single-handle faucet, matte black finish, model 9113." More detail means less back-and-forth with clients.
Include Labor Separately
Break out labor as its own line item. Clients appreciate transparency, and it helps you track the true cost of your time across jobs.
Mention Quantities Explicitly
Say "three gallons of exterior primer" rather than just "primer." The AI is smart, but explicit quantities prevent any guesswork.
Round Up Your Estimates
It's better to slightly over-estimate than under-estimate. If you think a job will take 2.5 hours, quote for 3. Clients love coming in under budget.
Common Voice Quoting Scenarios
Scenario 1: The Quick Repair
You're finishing a plumbing job when the homeowner asks about a dripping bathtub faucet.
What you say: "Add replacing the bathtub faucet cartridge, about 45 minutes labor at $85, plus a $25 part."
Result: New line item added to your existing quote in 5 seconds.
Scenario 2: The Comprehensive Estimate
You walk through a bathroom remodel site visit.
What you say: "Full bathroom demo, two days labor at $400 per day. Rough plumbing for tub, toilet, and vanity, that's about $2,200 labor. New American Standard tub $450, Kohler toilet $320, 36-inch vanity with stone top $900. Tile floor and tub surround, 120 square feet at $15 per square foot installed. Permit fees $150."
Result: Complete quote with 8 line items, ready to review and send.
Scenario 3: The Change Order
Mid-project, the client wants to upgrade their original tile choice.
What you say: "Change order for tile upgrade. Remove original porcelain at $8 per square foot, 60 square feet. Add designer marble at $28 per square foot, same 60 square feet. Net change to client $1,200."
Result: Documented change order you can reference later if there are questions.
Getting Started with Voice Quoting
Ready to try voice quoting? Here's how to get started:
- Download the SemaQuote app from the App Store or Google Play
- Create your account and set up your business profile
- Configure your defaults (labor rates, tax settings, business logo)
- Start quoting by tapping the microphone and describing your first job
Most contractors are comfortable with voice quoting after just 2-3 quotes. The AI learns your terminology and gets better at understanding your specific trade over time.
The Bottom Line
Voice quoting reduces administrative time while enabling faster response to prospects. Quote faster, handle more opportunities, and spend less time on paperwork.
Early adopters of productivity tools often gain market position that persists over time. Voice quoting represents one of those tools.
Ready to try voice quoting? Start your free SemaQuote trial and create your first voice-powered quote in under 2 minutes.
