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Best Xactimate Classes to Learn Estimating Quickly and Get Certified

  • Writer: DM Monticello
    DM Monticello
  • Jul 3
  • 7 min read

Why Take Xactimate Classes?

What You’ll Learn

Xactimate classes teach you how to:

  • Navigate the software confidently

  • Sketch rooms and property layouts

  • Select accurate pricing line items

  • Build estimates that get approved fast

These skills are essential for anyone working in insurance claims, restoration, or disaster response.

Want to explore more about the software? See What Is Xactimate.



Who Should Enroll

These classes are ideal for:

  • Independent adjusters looking to boost skills or certification

  • Restoration contractors writing estimates for insurance claims

  • Back-office teams supporting estimators

  • Public adjusters or supplement pros reviewing claim files

No matter your role, learning Xactimate makes you more valuable in the insurance ecosystem.



How It Helps With Jobs and Certifications

Taking Xactimate classes prepares you for:

  • Xactimate Certification (Level 1, 2, or 3)

  • Faster onboarding in new jobs

  • Improved approval rates for submitted estimates

If you’re applying to roles that require Xactimate knowledge, class completion can help you stand out and qualify for higher rates.

Check out Xactimate Certification for a full guide to exams and benefits.



Types of Xactimate Classes Available

Online Self-Paced Courses

Perfect for people who need flexibility, online classes let you learn:

  • On your schedule

  • From any device

  • At your own pace

They typically include:

  • Video lessons

  • Downloadable materials

  • Practice files

  • Quizzes and progress tracking

Some popular platforms include Verisk University, Udemy, and AdjusterPro.



Live Virtual Training

These are instructor-led classes hosted on Zoom or similar platforms. Benefits include:

  • Real-time Q&A

  • Hands-on walkthroughs

  • Peer interaction

Live training usually runs 2–3 hours/day over several days. It’s a great choice for people who want structure but can’t travel.

Looking for mobile-specific guidance? Read Xactimate Mobile Training.



In-Person Workshops

Ideal for tactile learners, these workshops are often held at:

  • Training centers

  • Industry events (RIA, IICRC)

  • Insurance adjuster conferences

Expect 2–3 days of deep dives, role play exercises, and instructor feedback. Some workshops even include certification testing at the end.

See Xactimate Training In Person for tips on what to expect.



Private Team Sessions

For companies with teams of 3 or more, private training can:

  • Tailor lessons to your workflows

  • Include company-specific examples

  • Train multiple roles (estimators, admins, field staff)

This is often the fastest way to get an entire team trained consistently.

Need help setting it up? OpsArmy can provide white-glove onboarding and team training support. Visit operationsarmy.com to learn more.



Top Skills You’ll Gain in Xactimate Classes

Sketching and Scope Building

One of the core skills taught in all Xactimate classes is how to use Sketch to:

  • Draw floor plans and rooms

  • Add walls, windows, and doors

  • Label rooms and adjust dimensions

  • Add stairs, roofs, and complex structures

Sketching is essential for estimate accuracy and for complying with insurance documentation standards.

You’ll also learn how to build a detailed scope of work by attaching line items to specific rooms.



Line Item Accuracy

Estimating is all about the details. Classes teach you:

  • How to search and apply the right line items

  • When to modify quantities, dimensions, or pricing

  • How to use the Xactimate White Pages to justify pricing

Improper line item usage is one of the top reasons estimates get rejected—learning how to avoid these mistakes boosts your success rate.

More on pricing in Xactimate Price List.



Estimate Review and Exports

Classes also cover how to:

  • Check estimates for errors

  • Review scope notes

  • Export files as PDF or ESX for carrier submission

  • Add photos and documentation

These skills are vital for any adjuster, estimator, or admin who finalizes or submits job files.



How to Choose the Right Xactimate Class

Based on Experience Level

  • Beginner: Choose a Level 1 course focused on interface navigation and basic estimates

  • Intermediate: Go for Level 2 classes with complex sketching and scope review

  • Advanced: Pick a Level 3 or private coaching option to master macros, supplements, and multi-trade jobs

Need help deciding? Start with What Is Xactimate to determine your starting point.



Based on Role (Estimator, Admin, Adjuster)

  • Estimators: Need sketching, pricing, and report exports

  • Admins: Need training on review, uploads, and supporting field teams

  • Adjusters: Need comprehensive skills across inspection, scope, and submission

Classes tailored to your role can save hours of unnecessary content and focus on what you actually use.



Based on Budget and Time

If you’re on a tight budget:

  • Start with free YouTube classes

  • Use Xactware’s free demo tools

  • Find affordable options on Udemy or Thinkific

If you’re short on time:

  • Book an intensive 1-day live class

  • Use private training to customize your learning

Also consider group discounts for team enrollments.



Best Practices for Success in Class

What to Do Before Class Starts

To get the most out of your class:

  • Download and install Xactimate (see Xactimate Download Guide)

  • Set up your Verisk/XactNet ID

  • Familiarize yourself with your role and typical projects

This helps you follow along smoothly and ask better questions.



Tools to Bring or Download

For online or in-person classes, have:

  • A working laptop with Windows (or emulator for Mac users)

  • Installed Xactimate desktop version (or access to Xactimate Online)

  • A notebook or Google Doc for notes

  • A mouse or stylus (for sketching)

If your class offers practice files, download them ahead of time.



Study Habits and Practice Projects

Reinforce what you learn by:

  • Rebuilding the same project multiple times

  • Creating real-life mock projects

  • Reviewing with a peer or mentor

Don’t just take the class—practice immediately afterward to lock in your skills.

Looking to train your entire team? Check out How to Build a Team of Xactimate Certified Estimators.



What Happens After the Class?

Certification Readiness

Most classes help prepare you for Xactimate Certification, especially Level 1 and Level 2. After class:

  • Schedule your certification exam

  • Complete any remaining practice exercises

  • Take a few mock tests if offered

Explore exam details in Xactimate Certification.



Applying New Skills on the Job

Start applying what you learned by:

  • Estimating real jobs (start small)

  • Helping review or QA someone else’s estimates

  • Building macros or templates based on common projects

This is where classroom learning becomes career transformation.



Continuing Education Options

Don’t stop at one class. Consider:

  • Additional levels of certification

  • Specialty classes (roofing, water mitigation, contents)

  • Joining peer groups or forums for ongoing learning

Need ongoing training or estimate support? OpsArmy can train, manage, and support your entire estimating workflow.



How to Choose the Best Xactimate Class for Your Career Goals

With dozens of Xactimate classes available online and in person, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Picking the best class depends on your role, skill level, budget, and how fast you need results. This section breaks down a decision framework so you can invest in the course that delivers real impact—not just a certificate.



1. Define Your Learning Objective

Start by asking:

  • “Do I want to get certified?”

  • “Do I need to build estimates at work?”

  • “Am I preparing for a job or role change?”

  • “Do I need to train my team quickly?”

Your goal will guide what type of class to take. For example:

  • Certification-focused? Look for exam prep bootcamps.

  • Job readiness? Choose full-scope training with mock projects.

  • Team development? Book a custom private training.

If you’re unsure, a foundational online course with practice projects is a good place to start.



2. Match Class Level to Your Experience

Here’s a simple breakdown:

  • New to Xactimate? Choose a beginner or Level 1 prep class.

  • 6–12 months experience? Go for an intermediate or Level 2 class.

  • Pro estimator? Consider advanced workshops or Level 3 certification support.

Many platforms label courses by level. If not, look at the syllabus or ask the instructor before enrolling.



3. Choose a Format That Fits Your Schedule

Your availability matters just as much as content. The three most common formats:

  • Self-paced video classes – Learn anytime, anywhere

  • Live virtual classes – Join scheduled sessions with instructors

  • In-person classes – Hands-on learning, usually 1–3 days

Busy professionals or parents often choose online options. But if you learn better face-to-face or want to network, go in person.

Want an overview of formats? Read Xactimate Training In Person for a breakdown.



4. Check Instructor Credentials and Reviews

The best Xactimate instructors are not only certified but also have:

  • Field experience as adjusters or contractors

  • A background in training or adult education

  • Good reviews or testimonials

Before buying a course, Google the instructor’s name or look for reviews on platforms like YouTube, Reddit, or training forums. This helps you avoid wasting time on low-quality material.



5. Understand What’s Included in the Price

Course prices range from $50 to over $1,000. What’s included varies:

  • Some offer just video content

  • Others include live coaching or certification exam access

  • A few give downloadable templates and cheat sheets

Look for bonuses like:

  • Real-world project files

  • One-on-one feedback

  • Free replays or lifetime access

And always confirm whether the class includes the cost of the Xactimate certification exam—many do not.



6. Consider Group or Team Training Options

If you run a company or manage a team, training everyone at once can save time and money. Group classes:

  • Ensure consistency in skills

  • Make it easier to implement SOPs

  • Can be customized to your industry (e.g., roofing, water mitigation)

Many providers offer discounts for teams of 3 or more. Some also include post-class support, which is especially helpful for onboarding new hires.

Need help managing training at scale? OpsArmy can handle your full certification and class workflow for all roles.



The Right Class Makes Learning Easier and Faster

The right Xactimate class helps you go from unsure and overwhelmed to confident and capable. It prepares you for real jobs, not just exams. And with the right fit, you’ll be writing estimates faster, with fewer mistakes—and seeing better results from your work.

Whether you're a solo adjuster or running a multi-location restoration company, your class choice shapes your long-term success. Choose wisely—and don’t be afraid to ask for help.



Final Thoughts: Learn Fast, Work Smart with the Right Xactimate Class

Xactimate classes can fast-track your growth from beginner to expert. Whether you're chasing certification, switching careers, or just want to write better estimates—training is the first step.

And if you want to train your team efficiently without wasting time or making costly mistakes, OpsArmy offers hands-on training and full estimating system setup.



OpsArmy Can Help

OpsArmy is building AI-native back office operations as a service (OaaS). We help businesses run their day-to-day operations with AI-augmented teams, delivering outcomes across sales, admin, finance, and hiring. In a world where every team is expected to do more with less, OpsArmy provides fully managed “Ops Pods” that blend deep knowledge experts, structured playbooks, and AI copilots. Think of us as your operational infrastructure: running faster, leaner, and smarter business execution. 

👉 Visit operationsarmy.com to learn more.



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