One of the most common questions people ask in an early conversation is, “How much will it cost?”

It’s a fair question. For most people, a remodel or custom home is one of the biggest investments they’ll ever make, and it’s natural to want a clear answer right away. The truth is, every project is unique, and cost depends on hundreds of small decisions that take shape during the design process.

At Kashas Design Build, we use a phased approach to help clients find that number with confidence instead of guesswork.

In the Conceptual Design Phase, we start with ideas, floor plans, and broad assumptions to develop a preliminary budget range. It’s not a final number but it’s a realistic target that keeps design decisions on track and helps everyone understand whether the project concept aligns with the desired investment.

In the Detail Design Phase, we refine that budget by developing complete drawings, specifying materials and finishes, and gathering updated trade and supplier pricing. At this point, the budget becomes much more accurate. For some projects, like kitchen remodels or additions, this can lead to a fixed-price construction agreement. For larger, more complex custom homes, we may move forward on a cost-plus basis where transparency, flexibility, and collaboration remain central to the process.

By the time construction starts, our clients know what to expect, both in scope and cost.

There’s a common misconception that builders can give a close estimate on a project from day one. The reality is that accurate pricing depends on accurate information. That’s why our design/build process builds the budget alongside the design, not after it.

If you’re just beginning to plan a project, you don’t need a finished design to start the conversation. The earlier we’re involved, the more we can help align design goals and budget before you spend time or money going down the wrong path.

This post is part of our “Questions We Get” series—real answers to common questions from homeowners planning a project. Next up: “What kinds of projects are a good fit?”