Frequently Asked Questions

Every project is unique, so we estimate based on your specific needs, which means the cost ultimately depends on your project scope and selections. Our process starts with a preliminary design phase that guides all construction estimates, ensuring you know exactly what to expect and the cost before any construction agreement is finalized.

The initial design fee usually costs around 10% of the anticipated construction budget, though this figure may vary slightly depending on the project's complexity. For a better sense of investment ranges, you can learn more about how much kitchen and bathroom projects typically cost here:

How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost?

How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?

While other companies may offer a "free estimate" based on loose observations (and typically low-ball the project to win the job only to later come in much higher), as a Design-Build firm we provide accurate numbers based on the specific details of your project.

What we do offer is a free initial consultation where we discuss your project and provide a broad range of budget costs based on previously completed work and initial site observations and your desired finishes.

Throughout the design process, we learn from you how to best allocate funds to the appropriate parts of the remodel that will give you the most value. The resulting detailed construction estimate is then developed during our Design Development and Estimating Stage, ensuring the number is accurate and reliable before construction ever begins.

Unlike many other remodeling companies, we do not operate under the low-ball initial estimate model designed to secure the job, only to result in many costly change orders later. We build trust and budget confidence from the very beginning by providing realistic numbers.

While our initial estimates are often more comprehensive from the start, that is because we begin with feasible, preference-based allowances (not low-cost, builder-grade materials). This commitment to accuracy, combined with updating costs as selections are finalized, significantly reduces the risk of painful budget surprises and unexpected change orders during construction.

An estimate is an educated guess, and its quality varies widely. Many contractors spend only a few minutes with you to quote a low number—a tactic known to lead to much higher costs later. We equate most "free estimates" with this burger deal metaphor: You head into a restaurant for a "$5 burger deal," but adding the necessary cheese, lettuce, sauce, and fries nickel-and-dimes you up to the true market price of $15. This hasty estimating approach often forces clients into high-risk, cost-plus arrangements, where final prices can easily double or triple the original estimate.

Inspired Design would rather think big from the beginning, then narrow down the options based on your preferences and budget, rather than build up the cost. (We have learned it's always easier to shrink a budget than expand one!)

By contrast, a price is a fixed amount based on complete plans, finalized selections, and detailed specifications. Our rigorous Design-Build process is dedicated to delivering a transparent, fixed price before construction begins. This protects you from the financial uncertainty and horror stories associated with careless estimating.

Learn more about our design, estimating, and construction process.

Our construction price is all-inclusive. It covers every element necessary to complete your project: all specified materials, labor, permits, engineering fees, project management, and comprehensive insurance. The final price is based on the meticulous detail in the final plans and specifications documents. We provide a fully executed home, ready for you to enjoy, with no hidden costs for any items specified in the contract.

Inspired Design does not offer in-house financing. However, we are happy to work directly with your lender of choice on any billing or payment schedules they require. For larger scale remodels, our clients typically secure funding through a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or construction loan, which gives them access to cash as needed for their remodeling project.

Billing is handled differently for the two main phases:

The Design Phase typically requires an upfront fee that is a percentage of the overall anticipated construction cost (often around 10%).

For the Construction Phase, we use milestone-based billing (or a draw schedule), where payments are tied to the completion of specific, measurable construction stages. For example, a payment might be due upon completion of demolition and framing, or upon completion of all mechanical rough-ins (plumbing, electrical, HVAC). This ensures you only pay for work that has been demonstrably completed on your home. This payment schedule will be clearly outlined on your construction contract before we begin work so you know what to expect and when.

We believe in proactive financial planning. That's why we build a contingency number right into your initial estimate. This addresses items outside the planned scope that might be necessary to finish the project (like unforeseen issues uncovered during demolition).

By having this fund built in, we ensure we don't have to ask you for additional money at every slight turn during construction. This proactive approach ensures a smoother financial experience and allows the project to move forward without unnecessary delay.

We prioritize budget transparency and accuracy from incorporating the budget as we design. We achieve this by:

• Realistic Allowances: We incorporate feasible allowances reflecting your preferences from day one (not low 'builder-grade' estimates) and update costs as selections are finalized.

• Trade Input: We invite specialized tradespeople (engineers, electricians, etc.) to review the plans and provide input on the estimate before construction begins.

• Unified Planning: Having a single plan for both design and construction avoids conflicts and rework, which significantly reduces the risk of dreaded change orders during the build.

We minimize change orders through thorough planning. If a change is necessary—either due to unforeseen conditions or a shift in your preference—we use a formal, written Change Order document. This document clearly details the scope modification, the exact price adjustment, and any timeline impact, and requires your signature before any new work begins.

We get it--life is full of surprises. Sometimes situations arise and clients decide not to move forward with their project. In this case, the design fee is not refunded. Due to insurance and liability reasons, any drawings or plans developed by Inspired Design cannot be used for construction by another party.