ACRE & ANGLE
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Getting a quote 6 min read

What to prepare before requesting an architectural quote

Checklist of documents, decisions, and photos that make design-professional fee proposals faster and more accurate.

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The fastest way to get a useful fee proposal is to reduce unknowns. You do not need perfect drawings — you need honest inputs.

Decision basics

  • Primary goals (space, light, value, accessibility, rental unit…)
  • Must-haves vs nice-to-haves
  • Household decision makers
  • Hard constraints (move-in date, school year, financing)

Site and property

Address or metro, ownership status, HOA or historic notes, known drainage/soil issues, and whether utilities are available for additions/ADUs.

Budget and financing

A construction budget band plus awareness of soft costs. If financing is not ready, say so — timelines change.

Files that help

  • Photos of existing conditions
  • Prior plans or surveys if any
  • Inspiration images with notes (not 40 contradictory boards)
  • HOA guidelines PDFs

FAQ

What if I have no survey?
Say so. Many projects start without one; your team will advise when to order it.
Do I need a contractor first?
Not required to request design fees. Builder involvement can come during design for pricing checks.
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