In article ,
"stainer" wrote:

I usually give free estimates at the time of looking at the job,
then I inform them about the "design fee" to get a plan.
Interesting how things work differently at different places. If you
gave me an estimate and then mentioned the design fee (especially since
the fee is not credited toward the project if we accept) I would have
tossed you out the door as trying to rip me off. Especially since I am
sure the actual bid doesn't always match up with estimate after you get
exactly everything down on paper.