Need help: No contractors want to give me 'real' estimates

[Ken Junk]

I've had 6 contractors recently come to my house to get an estimate for a 1 bed with bath expansion. NONE of them wanted to give me a 'real' estimate without dropping $6.5k for blueprints. If this was a rehab, how is everyone getting estimates without getting blueprints? Or is getting blueprints part of the process that can't be skipped over? 

Sorry for the noob question. Kinda frustrated at this point.

[Jared W Smith]

@Ken Junk - I cannot speak to this accurately since you are in a very different market (CA) than me (NY). Here I could see that being between $5-8k or more (for a RA). As @Nik Moushon mentioned, it would be best to reach out to a small firm (under 5 people) or a sole practitioner. Because of the size, the total price may fall under a standard project minimum to cover expenses. This cost will depend on the current home, foundation (existing & new) / soil conditions, municipality coordination and actual architectural services provided (is construction admin. included?). Also, close-out, is a new C of O needed? You should speak to an architect in your locale and also the Building and/or Planning Department.     

Jared Smith, RA 

Disclaimer: I am an architect, but I am not YOUR architect. I am not giving professional advice only general information. Contact a local architect/engineer for a detailed consultation specific to your project/locale.