[inspiredbynatur]

I just want to thank anyone ahead of time for any help they provide me. I looking to start a landscape design/build company, and have just started one my first design jobs. Basically what i am looking for is advise on how to let the customer know that it will cost them for me to come do the design, and is there anyone who has an example contract that they use for designs. That way you dont get stiffed and waste all your time when they say they will pay you, but then dont. I really hope that i wont have that problem, but who knows. I would like to get part, if not all of the design fee at the first meeting. just to insure i dont get screwed.

Please if anyone has run into this before, or any of you pros that are willing to help, im all ears.

Thanks again!

[Mac]

the search for the user AGLA will get you more than enough reading to do and will cover this topic very well.

[Chris Heiler]

Congratulations and good luck!

First off, let me just say THANK YOU for actually charging design fees.

My advice is to be up front with people. Tell them you charge design fees over the phone, don't wait until you meet with them. This way you won't be wasting your time. I know it can be difficult or uncomfortable telling people you charge fees. It used to be uncomfortable for me as well. You have to just come out and say it confidently. The more you do it, the easier it will be.

I'm also happy to see that you will be using a Design Contract. My advice is to get roughly half of the design fees as a retainer and bill the rest upon completion. This has always worked well for me.

I'll try to post a recent Design Commission of mine. Just note, this is ONLY for the Site Survey and Conceptual Development. Planting Plans, Construction Documents and estimates are NOT included in this.

[inspiredbynatur]

Thanks for the help Chris. I think it will take some getting used to telling people over the phone that you charge for design work. I just finished school, and really like doing designs. My first time out doing a design i spent a LOT of time working on it, and then guess what, they looked at it and didnt want to pay me! I thought it was pretty messed up, but i guess it happens. Thats why i found this place, and really am looking for advise from people like you who have probably gone through the same thing at one time or another. Again i really appreciate your time and advise, and ill take a look at that example contract you sent, as i should probably get myself something like that soon.

[jshilan]

Check out post "lots of bait, no bite". I just put up some info that could help you.