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Complete Project Lifecycle Roadmap

Every stage, every step, every status transition from posting your first job to final contractor payout and warranty closeout. Fully transparent. Fully protected.

14 Stages 14 AI Tools Escrow Protected 50 States Compliant 2.9% Platform Fee
14
Lifecycle Stages
14
AI Tools
2.9%
Platform Fee
50+
States Covered
100%
Escrow Protected
Phase A: Pre-Construction
1
Stage 1
Account & Profile Setup
Owner registers, contractor creates verified profile with portfolio and licensing
Owner
Contractor
1

Owner Registration

Create account with email, name, phone, role selection. Email verification link sent automatically.

POST /api/auth/register
2

Email Verification

Click link in email to verify ownership. Auto-verified on successful login or password reset.

GET /api/auth/verify-email
3

Contractor Registration

Register with trade specialties, license number, company name, and service areas.

POST /api/auth/register
4

Contractor Profile

Build profile with portfolio items, insurance docs, bond info, years of experience, and team size.

POST /api/contractor-profiles
5

CSLB License Verification

Real-time California State License Board lookup. Verifies license status, classification, bond, and workers' comp.

POST /api/cslb/lookup
6

KYC Verification (Enterprise)

Identity and business verification for enterprise accounts. Required before high-value transactions.

POST /api/kyc
2
Stage 2
Job Posting & Scope Definition
Owner creates a detailed job listing with budget, timeline, phases, and requirements
Owner
1

Create Job Listing

Title, description, category (residential/commercial), location, budget range, and desired timeline.

POST /api/jobs
2

Define Project Phases

Break large jobs into ordered phases (demolition, rough-in, finish). Each phase can accept separate bids.

POST /api/projects/:id/phases
3

Use Project Templates

Start from reusable templates (Kitchen Remodel, Bathroom, ADU) with pre-defined phases and milestones.

POST /api/projects/from-template
4

AI Cost Estimation

AI analyzes project type, location, and scope to provide realistic budget range with material/labor breakdown.

AI Project Cost Estimator
5

AI Compliance Check

Ensures permits, licensing, down payment limits, and state-specific legal requirements are addressed.

AI Compliance Assistant
6

Invite & Match Contractors

Send direct invites to specific contractors or use AI Contractor Matching to find best-fit candidates.

AI Contractor Matching
Job Status: Open In Review Awarded Closed
3
Stage 3
Site Visits, Estimates & Applications
Contractors review the job, schedule site visits, and submit applications before formal bidding
Contractor
Owner
1

Contractor Views Job & Applies

Contractor reviews job details, submits application with cover letter, relevant experience, and availability.

POST /api/applications
2

Schedule Site Visit / Estimate

Owner or contractor schedules on-site appointment: estimate walkthrough, site visit, or pre-bid meeting.

POST /api/appointments
3

Request Formal Estimate

Owner sends formal estimate request with specific scope, desired timeline, and budget constraints.

POST /api/estimate-requests
4

Owner Reviews Applications

Review contractor qualifications, check CSLB verification status, portfolio, and reviews before inviting to bid.

GET /api/applications/job/:jobId
Application: Pending Reviewed Accepted / Rejected
Appointment: Estimate Site Visit Meeting Inspection
4
Stage 4
Bidding & AI Analysis
Contractors submit detailed bids with cost breakdowns; AI scores and compares across 5 dimensions
Contractor
1

Submit Detailed Bid

Total amount with labor, materials, permits breakdown. Timeline with start/completion dates, team size, warranty.

POST /api/bids
2

Define Milestones & Schedule

Attach payment milestones to bid: what gets paid when. Include materials grade and payment terms.

3

Phase-Level Bids (Multi-Phase)

For phased projects, contractors bid on individual phases separately with phase-specific scope and pricing.

POST /api/project-phases/:phaseId/bids
4

AI Bid Writer Assist

AI helps contractors craft professional, compelling bids that highlight strengths and experience.

AI Bid Writer
5

AI Efficiency Scoring

0-100 score across: price competitiveness, timeline reasonableness, qualifications, value, and risk. Letter grade A+ to F.

POST /api/bids/:id/ai-score
6

Batch Score All Bids

Owner scores every bid at once for instant side-by-side comparison with strengths, concerns, and AI insights.

POST /api/jobs/:id/score-all-bids
Bid Status: Pending Accepted / Rejected / Withdrawn
5
Stage 5
Award Bid & Contract Execution
Owner selects winning bid; AI generates state-compliant contract; both parties sign digitally
Owner
Contractor
1

Accept Winning Bid

Owner accepts the best bid. Other bids automatically rejected. Job status moves to "Awarded".

PATCH /api/bids/:id
2

AI Contract Generation

AI generates a state-compliant contract with scope of work, payment schedule, warranty, cancellation rights, and legal notices.

POST /api/contracts/generate
3

AI Contract Review

AI analyzes contract for risks, missing clauses, unfavorable terms, and state-specific compliance issues.

AI Smart Contract Review
4

Contract Negotiation

Both parties can review, request changes, and discuss terms via messaging before signing.

PATCH /api/contracts/:id
5

E-Signature by Both Parties

Owner and contractor sign digitally. Contract becomes legally binding. Timestamp and IP recorded.

POST /api/contracts/:id/sign
6

Generate Contract PDF

Final signed contract exported as PDF with all signatures, dates, and legal attachments for records.

POST /api/contracts/:id/pdf
Contracts are compliant with all 50 US states + DC, including state-specific legal notices, 3-day cancellation rights (where required), down payment limits, and licensing requirements.
6
Stage 6
Project Setup & Escrow Funding
Create the active project, define milestones with tasks, fund escrow, and assign project manager
Owner
PM
1

Create Active Project

Link owner, contractor, signed contract, and total budget. Project starts as "Active" with start date.

POST /api/projects
2

Define Payment Milestones

Break project into milestone payments: deposit, foundation, framing, rough-in, finish, final. Each has amount and due date.

POST /api/milestones
3

Create Milestone Tasks

Attach granular tasks to each milestone with descriptions, status tracking, and completion criteria.

POST /api/milestone-tasks
4

Create Escrow Account

Secure escrow holds all funds. Owner money protected until milestones are approved. Full audit trail.

POST /api/escrow/accounts
5

Fund Escrow via Stripe

Owner deposits project funds into escrow using Stripe credit card or ACH. Funds held until milestone release.

POST /api/escrow/accounts/:id/fund-stripe
6

Assign Project Manager

Optional PM assignment for oversight. PM gets dashboard access with full project visibility and reporting.

POST /api/project-managers
Project: Active On Hold Completed / Disputed / Cancelled
Escrow: Pending Active Completed Closed
Phase B: Active Construction
7
Stage 7
Construction Execution & Daily Operations
Contractor performs work; daily logs, photo tracking, messaging, and AI risk monitoring keep everyone informed
Contractor
1

Daily Logs

Record daily work: crew on-site, hours worked, weather, materials used, work completed, and issues encountered.

POST /api/daily-logs
2

AI Voice to Daily Log

Speak your daily update. AI converts voice notes into structured log entries with categories and details.

AI Voice to Daily Log
3

Photo Progress Tracking

Upload site photos. AI analyzes construction progress, identifies safety issues, estimates % complete.

AI Photo Progress Tracking
4

AI Risk & Delay Prediction

AI monitors weather, supply chain, scheduling, and labor risks. Proactive alerts before problems happen.

AI Risk & Delay Prediction
5

Real-Time Messaging

WhatsApp-style messaging between owner, contractor, and PM. File sharing, read receipts, and AI message assist.

AI Message Assistant
6

RFIs (Requests for Information)

Formal question/answer system for design clarifications, material substitutions, and scope questions. Full audit trail.

POST /api/rfis
8
Stage 8
Change Orders, Documents & Compliance
Handle scope changes formally, manage project documents, track permits and inspections
Contractor
Owner
1

Submit Change Orders

Formal scope change requests with cost impact, timeline impact, and detailed description. Requires owner approval.

POST /api/change-orders
2

Approve/Reject Change Orders

Owner reviews cost and timeline changes. Approved changes adjust project budget and escrow amounts.

PATCH /api/change-orders/:id
3

Project Document Management

Upload and organize: blueprints, invoices, inspection reports, photos, change orders, and contracts.

POST /api/project-documents
4

Apply for Permits

Track permit applications: building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical. Status, costs, and permit numbers.

POST /api/permits
5

Schedule Inspections

Track required inspections: foundation, framing, rough-in, insulation, drywall, final. Results: pass/fail/conditional.

POST /api/inspections
6

AI Progress Reports

Generate comprehensive reports: milestone status, budget vs. actual, timeline analysis, and risk assessment.

AI Progress Reports
Permits: Applied Pending Review Approved / Rejected
Inspections: Scheduled Passed / Failed / Conditional
9
Stage 9
Milestone Completion & Escrow Payments
Contractor submits completed work; owner approves; escrow releases payment minus 2.9% fee
Contractor
Owner
1

Contractor Submits Milestone

Marks milestone work as complete with photos, documentation, and summary of completed tasks.

POST /api/escrow/milestone-payments/:id/submit
2

Owner Reviews & Approves

Owner inspects completed work, reviews photos and documentation. Approves to release funds or rejects with notes.

POST /api/escrow/milestone-payments/:id/approve
3

Escrow Payment Release

Approved amount released from escrow. 2.9% platform fee deducted. Net amount paid to contractor.

4

Invoice Generation

Formal invoices created for each milestone payment with line items, tax, and payment record tracking.

POST /api/invoices
5

Conditional Lien Waiver

Contractor signs conditional lien waiver for progress payments, releasing claim for amounts received.

POST /api/escrow/waivers/:id/sign
6

Dispute Resolution (if needed)

If disagreement on work quality, dispute filed. Undisputed portion released. Mediation for remainder.

POST /api/escrow/milestone-payments/:id/dispute
Milestone: Pending In Progress Submitted Approved / Rejected
💰 Payment formula: Net Amount = Milestone Amount - Platform Fee (2.9%). Example: $10,000 milestone = $9,710 to contractor + $290 platform fee.
Phase C: Finish & Selections
10
Stage 10
Finish Schedule & Material Selections
AI-assisted finish selections, product sourcing, style matching, and budget tracking per category
Owner
1

AI Finish Schedule Generation

AI creates comprehensive schedule: flooring, countertops, fixtures, paint colors, tile, hardware, appliances.

AI Finish Schedule Generator
2

AI Product Sourcing

AI finds matching products with pricing, availability, and alternatives. Ensures design consistency.

AI Product Sourcing
3

Style Analysis

AI analyzes selections for style consistency, color palette harmony, and design theme alignment.

4

Owner Approval per Item

Each finish selection requires owner sign-off. Compare options, view samples, and approve or request alternatives.

5

Budget Tracking by Category

Track spent vs. allocated for each category (flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures, etc.). Real-time overrun alerts.

6

Supplier & Material Ordering

Order materials from verified suppliers. Track lead times, pricing, delivery dates, and affiliate savings.

POST /api/materials
11
Stage 11
Punch List & Final Walkthrough
Identify remaining items, fix deficiencies, complete final inspections, and prepare for closeout
Owner
Contractor
1

Create Punch List Items

Walk-through to document outstanding work: touch-ups, adjustments, missing hardware, cosmetic fixes. Photo documentation.

POST /api/punch-list
2

Contractor Completes Items

Contractor addresses each punch list item. Updates status with before/after photos and completion notes.

PATCH /api/punch-list/:id
3

Final Inspections Pass

All required city/county inspections passed: building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire, final.

PATCH /api/inspections/:id
4

Owner Final Walkthrough

Owner confirms all punch list items resolved, all inspections passed, and work meets contract specifications.

Phase D: Closeout & Final Payout
12
Stage 12
Legal Closeout & Lien Waivers
File notice of completion, sign final lien waivers, and resolve any outstanding claims
Owner
Contractor
1

File Notice of Completion

Official notice filed with county recorder. Starts the clock on mechanic's lien deadlines (30-90 days by state).

POST /api/notices-of-completion
2

Final Unconditional Lien Waiver

Contractor signs final unconditional lien waiver, permanently releasing all claims against the property.

POST /api/escrow/waivers/:id/sign
3

Resolve Outstanding Claims

Any pending claims (Section 8850 compliant) resolved before final payment. Dispute mediation if needed.

GET /api/projects/:id/claims
4

Final Budget Reconciliation

Compare original contract amount to final cost including all change orders, allowances, and adjustments.

Legal protection: Lien waivers are state-specific. California uses conditional/unconditional progress and final waivers. All 50 states + DC supported with proper legal notices and statutory requirements.
13
Stage 13 - Final Payment
Final Payout & Retention Release
Last milestone approved, retention holdback released, escrow pays contractor final amount
Owner
Contractor
1

Approve Final Milestone

Owner approves the last milestone after walkthrough, all punch list items complete, and inspections passed.

POST /api/escrow/milestone-payments/:id/approve
2

Release Retention Holdback

Any retained amount (typically 5-10%) released after lien waiver period expires and no claims filed.

3

Final Escrow Disbursement

Remaining escrow balance paid to contractor. 2.9% platform fee on final amount. Full transaction record created.

POST /api/payments
4

Close Escrow Account

Escrow account marked as completed and closed. Full audit trail preserved. All transaction records archived.

Payment: Pending Processing Completed
14
Stage 14
Warranty, Reviews & Post-Completion
Project marked complete, warranty period begins, reviews exchanged, and referrals earned
Owner
Contractor
1

Mark Project Completed

Project status set to "Completed" with completion date. All milestones approved, all payments processed.

PATCH /api/projects/:id
2

Warranty Registration

Record warranty details: duration (1-10 years typical), coverage scope, terms, and contractor obligations.

POST /api/warranties
3

Owner Reviews Contractor

Rate 1-5 stars with written review: quality, communication, timeliness, professionalism, and value.

POST /api/reviews
4

Contractor Reviews Owner

Contractor rates the owner: communication, payment promptness, decision timeliness, and reasonableness.

POST /api/reviews
5

Referral Rewards

Both parties can refer new users. Earn rewards through the gamified referral system with leaderboard and achievements.

POST /api/referrals
6

Warranty Claims (if needed)

During warranty period, owner can file warranty claims for defective work. Contractor obligated to repair per contract.

🏆 After completion: Both parties earn gamification points, unlock achievements, and climb the leaderboard. Contractors build their verified review portfolio for future bids.

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