Design Contract?

Fuzzycram

I started a new C&R business a while ago, and I've come across a few people that wanted very specific things done, and a few people that say like "Updated like the shows I see on HGTV or TLC" but really aren't sure about anything specific. My question is: Is there a way to make a design contract or some other named contract where they basically not only pay me for labor and materials, but also the time and effort into basically designing their remodel? I don't know if it should be hourly or cost-plus. I've tried to work out a couple but people can tell that I'm not sure how to price it. Any help?

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Quality over Quantity

house bldr

When we run into a deal like that we just figure any design time into the time & material at our usual hourly rate.I suppose if you wanted to do it different you could figure a percentage of the total job price like an architect would, say,5-10%. Since you probably aren't as qualified as an architect would be it wouldn't be right to charge the full 15-20% they would get.

tcleve4911

Administration & design fee.
This should be stated in your contract that your time is valuable and you need to charge for it.
You could do a weekly billing for design & admin at $50.00/hr or whatever your rate is. Just help the folks up front by letting them know you are going to charge extra for this.
People are usually willing to pay for things of value & your time is definitly valuable to you & to them. Good Luck.

Make sure it's stated in your contract!!!!!!!

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Back in Maine
Dubbin' Around
Doin' good stuff ......

Fuzzycram

awesome! I'm usually up front about it, but since I don't really have a SOP yet, it wasn't working out. I appreciate the advice, it sounds like I should go at my hourly rate, its good enough for me and it won't cost them architect money. Thanks again!

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Quality over Quantity

HillBill

i find the cost + 10 % covers most design expenses, unless things get extensive, but that is ussualy evident and the homeowner doesnt mind kickin in the extra .........

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HILLBILL

Fuzzycram

Does that include bringing them samples and all that? Do you calculate cost plus ten percent of the cost or ten percent of the total job?

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Quality over Quantity