How much would architect design fees be for a 3br/3ba off-grid home in rural Central California?

Question

My husband and I are planning on building a second home on a very long-term basis. This home will most likely be where we'll retire to. We'll have to do this in stages for financial reasons. We're planning on buying a large piece of rural property, and having a well-planned, mostly-to-fully off-grid home designed that is simple but beautiful and not too large (between 1800sf - 2400sf). We'd love to do a prefab, but, depending on the nature of the land, it might have to be a custom design. I just have no clue as to what architectural fees could be. Thanks for any feedback on this.

Answer 1

Short answer: A whole lot more than the architect will tell you.  Assume 15%. Get a firm budget and require updates.  Make sure firm takes responsibility for changes needed to satisfy building department. Anticipate the following charges in addition to the Architect- Surveying, Geotechnical, and Structural Engineering, Energy or Green Building (sometimes required for permit).

Tips: Find a firm that has designed and completed projects that you like both exterior and interior (floorplan and finishes). That is the best way to know you'll get close to your vision.  Before doing anything, find our more about the property by consulting with a Geotechnical engineer. You'll probably need to have soils report done anyway and an initial consultation is usual free or at a nomimal charge.   Investigate the zoning.  What is the jurisdiction? How will your plans be reviewed? Do neighbors have input? How much does is cost to get a permit? Do this before buying property and allowing architect to start working. Be careful with contract, particularly with regards to how disputes are resolved.  AIA contract isn't good for client.