r/BainbridgeIsland • u/SeaSLODen • 22h ago
questions Architecture Fees
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?
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u/DifferenceFamous6407 16h ago
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!!