How to Estimate Your Construction Project Online in 60 Seconds

One of the most common questions we get is: "How much will my plans cost?" It is a fair question, and the honest answer is: it depends on the project type and square footage. But rather than making you wait for a callback to get a number, we built a calculator that gives you an instant answer.

This article explains how the calculator works, what it covers, and how to use it to plan your project budget before you talk to anyone.

Why We Built the Calculator

Most drafting firms and architects make you go through a consultation process before they will give you any pricing. We understand why — every project is different, and a phone call helps clarify scope. But we also know that most people just want a ballpark number before they commit to a conversation.

Our calculator gives you that number in about 60 seconds. No email required. No sales call. Just enter your project type and square footage and get an instant estimate.

What the Calculator Covers

The calculator provides instant estimates for:

ADU & JADU Design

Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior ADUs — the most popular project type in California right now. Pricing starts at $1.80/sq ft for permit-ready plans.

Garage Conversion

Converting an attached or detached garage to living space, ADU, or JADU. Pricing starts at $1.30/sq ft.

Custom Home Design

Full permit-ready plan sets for new custom home construction. Pricing starts at $1.80/sq ft.

Major Remodel

Permit-ready plans for significant interior remodels, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, open-concept conversions, and structural changes. Pricing starts at $1.40/sq ft.

Home Addition

Adding square footage to an existing home — room additions, second-story additions, and similar projects. Pricing starts at $1.60/sq ft.

Fire Restoration

Reconstruction plans for fire-damaged homes. Pricing starts at $1.30/sq ft.

As-Built Drawings

Professionally measured floor plans of your existing structure, delivered within 24 hours. Flat-fee pricing based on square footage.

How to Use the Calculator

Step 1: Go to liberty-drafting.com/calculator

Step 2: Select your project type from the dropdown

Step 3: Enter the square footage of your project

Step 4: Get your instant estimate

The calculator shows you the estimated cost range for your drafting plans. It also shows typical turnaround time for your project type.

What the Calculator Does Not Include

The calculator estimates drafting plan costs only — the cost of the construction drawings you need to pull a permit. It does not include:

• Construction costs (labor and materials)
• Permit fees (set by your local building department, typically $2,000–$15,000 for residential projects)
• Engineering fees (if structural calculations are required)
• Permit coordination fees (if you want us to manage the permit process for you)

For a complete project budget, you will need estimates from contractors as well. But knowing the drafting cost upfront helps you plan.

What Happens After You Get Your Estimate?

If the estimate looks right for your budget, the next step is a free project review. You can:

• Call David directly: 916-694-9949
• Submit a project inquiry through our contact form at liberty-drafting.com/contact

During the project review, we will ask about your specific project — lot size, existing conditions, any special requirements — and confirm the estimate or adjust it based on project complexity.

Most projects can be started within a few business days of the initial review.

Share the Calculator

If you are a contractor, realtor, or property manager who regularly works with clients who need drafting services, feel free to share the calculator link: liberty-drafting.com/calculator

It is a useful tool for helping clients understand drafting costs before they start a project — and it makes the conversation about scope and budget much easier.

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Ready to get started? Use the calculator now at liberty-drafting.com/calculator or call us at 916-694-9949.