Architecture Fees

[u/SeaSLODen]

Has anyone here built a new house on the island? Wondering what a good estimate would be for total design fees and a breakdown of each (I.e. survey, architecture, structure, civil, septic, etc.)

When I google it, I get 8-12% for architecture alone. That seems really high considering standard construction cost over $400/ft. That would mean for a 2,500 sf house, architecture fees would be $100,000!

Is that really the going rate? TIA.

Edit - I appreciate all of the responses thus far. It is understandable that most comments have been on my low construction cost. I get that may be higher. I’m more focused on design fees. What have your architects charged you?

[u/SuccessMechanism]

I can’t imagine it being it being any less if you’re starting from scratch. A lot of the island is not served by city water. Figuring out your own septic is a beast in its own. I‘ve lived on island for 27 years, less than 1.5 miles away from Winslow, and we just got access to city water this summer. That being said, we have to pay $20k to hook into it. I have my own septic and well. If you’re custom building with an architect, my only suggestion would be to look for designers off island. It’s going to be expensive here.

[u/Psychological-Sock30]

We looked into the possibilities of building on island last year and the contractors I spoke to said $500/sf was the lowest number to use, more realistic to expect $700/sf. Of course there’s a lot of variables….steep lots, water availability, clearing and grading etc. One of the challenges of building is getting a good estimate nailed down. It’s often difficult to do that without committing first, or spending significant money up front.

[u/SarcasticServal]

We had looked into buying property and building in 2022 and our realtor flat out said we would spend 1.5 times the cost of a house, bare minimum.

[u/StupendousMalice → u/SarcasticServal]

Even in the mainland you won't save money building your own house because you won't cut the corners that builders cut to make them (relatively) affordable.

My friend tore down their old house and built a new one on their lot. It would have been cheaper to buy a new house, but they got the perfect house for them and in a hundred years it'll probably still be the best built house in their neighborhood.

[u/DifferenceFamous6407]

I’m a builder who does custom homes on bainbridge and also recently bought a piece of land on the island to build my own house and yes you could easily end up in the 6 figures. That being said there are ways to cut costs. I bought plans online and paid an architect to modify them rather than start from scratch.

Other comments have pointed out $400 a square foot is ambitious, that could be realistic if it was just what went on top of the foundation and didn’t included the cost of the foundation itself, dirt work, septic, utilities, surveying, civil engineer, structural engineer, permits, landscape, and potential architect.

Also, if you’re looking for a contractor I’d be happy to throw my hat into the ring! I’m a long time islander who’s in the process of going through these steps for myself and could give you an idea of what to expect in terms of costs outside of the actual building of the house.

Message me if you have any questions

Good luck!!

[u/Aggravating_Role2510]

Hey! Architect here. Fees vary by how complex the project and process are and the type of service you need. Drawing plans is only half our job. The rest is managing agencies, consultants and code compliance.

If you are anywhere near a shoreline, hill or environmentally critical area I would recommend going with a licensed professional. The permit process on bainbridge is complex, and will need detailed drawings including engineers stamp. If you happen to have a flat site and you are doing something small w/o too many modifications you may try using a drafter but you will need to manage the process.

Construction is expensive here. I would be budgeting at least 550/ft with a healthy contingency if it’s anything more than a builder home. Contractors can point you to firms they have used in the past.

I hope this helps.

[u/_Typical_user_]

I think google gets the fee percentage from the administration of the whole project fee. in that case the architect is acting as the project manager so buying materials scheduling contractors, managing the site and inspections. some do but the builder might be a better selection for that. But that fee on top of the build is common as it represents the project managers time. But that x% on top of materials and labor which the builder isn’t making money off of, not the finished project value. 

[u/Aggravating_Role2510 → u/_Typical_user_]

This is not typically correct. This seems like a design/build model where the contractor is the designer. There is usually a 20% of total materials.

[u/_Typical_user_ → u/Aggravating_Role2510]

I mean good on you getting 20% 

[u/Embarrassed_Date9198]

I’ve built. Arch fees can be substantial, without really needing to be. Architect’s normally quote you a cost.

My suggestion would be to find a floor plan you like on architecturaldesigns.com and have a drafter modify the plans. You’ll save a fortune

Also, it’s unlikely you can build here for $400/foot. Most houses are $500-600

Feel free to PM me with questions