Got questions! Here’s some answers to the questions we hear most frequently. And feel free to reach out if you’re curious about anything else. We’re here to help!
Q: What is Design-Build, and how is it different from the traditional approach?
In a traditional setup, you’d hire an architect, then bid out the drawings to contractors, and manage communication between the two. With a design-build firm like Letter Four, everything — from concept to construction — happens under one roof. This means fewer surprises, streamlined communication, and a cohesive vision carried through to the final build. It’s faster, smoother, and often more cost-effective.
Q: What kinds of projects does Letter Four take on?
We specialize in custom homes and select commercial spaces. Most of our work involves new builds or major renovations/additions.
Q: What if your portfolio doesn’t reflect my design style — are we still a good fit?
Absolutely. Our process is collaborative and customized. While we have worked in many design styles, your vision drives the outcome with our expert guidance. We’re here to bring your aesthetic to life, not replicate past work.
Q: What is the Action Plan and what’s included?
The Action Plan is your project’s launchpad. It includes:
Q: Will I be charged separately for surveys and consultant reports?
Yes — while we coordinate these for you, their fees are billed separately and only when needed. We’ll always flag these in advance so there are no surprises.
Q: Do you use outside consultants during the Action Plan?
If your site has unique challenges, we may bring in specialists — like a surveyor, arborist, or geotechnical engineer — to ensure we’re building on solid ground (literally and figuratively).
Q: What’s the difference between what Letter Four does and what an expeditor or entitlement consultant does?
We handle all standard due diligence during the Action Plan. For more complex projects (like those requiring discretionary approvals or zoning variances), we may recommend bringing in an entitlement consultant or expeditor. They have deep city knowledge and relationships that can help navigate grey areas in local code.
Q: How much will my custom home cost?
It depends on size, scope, design choices, and your site. Most of our all-in budgets range from $650+ per square foot. Soft costs (like architectural design, engineering, and permits) typically range between 10–30% of the construction cost, which is dependent on the complexity and size of the project.
Q: Why don’t you give a flat price per square foot estimate like other firms?
Every project is unique — and flat-rate estimates often ignore site conditions, finishes, and structural complexity. Our approach is more accurate and tailored to your specific needs.
Q: Is the Action Plan fee credited toward future work?
Yes! If you continue with us for full design-build services, your Action Plan fee becomes a credit toward the next phase.
Q: How are your fees structured after the Action Plan?
We use a mix of fixed and hourly fees depending on the phase:
Q: Will I be charged for things like mileage or printing?
Rarely. We work digitally as much as possible. If any job-related travel or printing is needed, it’s billed at cost and disclosed up front.
Do you have a sample fee or budget breakdown?
Yes — we’re happy to walk you through one from a similar past project, either in person or over Zoom.
Q: What comes after the Action Plan?
We move into the formal design-build contract, which includes:
Q: What’s included in your interior design services?
We help you select all permanently installed materials (like tile, lighting, cabinetry, etc.) — and even your furnishings, if you’d like. Interior design is part of our scope, not an add-on, and billed hourly so you can use as much or as little support as you need.
Q: When do interior designers get involved?
They typically join during the Design Development phase and stay on through construction to ensure seamless coordination with the architectural and construction teams and finish planning.
Q: Is your construction contract fixed-price?
Yes. We finalize a fixed construction price around the time permits are approved. This price reflects detailed designs, not guesswork — because we’re the same team designing and building.
Q: How is the contractor fee handled?
Our construction fee is clearly shown as a separate line item — no hidden markups or buried profits. What you see is what you get.
Q: How involved will I be during construction?
You’ll be in the loop every step of the way. You’ll approve key decisions, get regular updates, and be consulted on any necessary substitutions or clarifications. We will update you weekly on project status, and you will have access to your project “portal” at all times.
Q: Who advocates for design quality during construction?
We do. Because our architectural and construction teams work together in-house, we don’t have the usual “design vs. build” tension. Your vision is our shared priority, and we maintain close architectural oversight through every phase of construction.
Q: When will construction start after permits are approved?
Typically, within 7–15 days of permit approval. We coordinate with you to find the best timing.
Q: Do you offer any post-construction support or warranties?
Yes — we offer a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials, plus all manufacturer warranties. You’ll also receive a “home manual” with all maintenance info and trade contacts. And if something comes up years later, we’re still here to help.
Q: Will Letter Four offer Self-Certification for fire rebuilds?
Yes! We have been approved by LA County for the Self-Certification Program and can offer our clients significant time savings compared to traditional plan check. You can find us on LA County’s List of Approved Professionals here: recovery.lacounty.gov/rebuilding/self-certification/
Q: When is soil testing required?
It depends on your lot. We may recommend a geotechnical report if there’s slope, expansive soils, or past fire damage. We’ll guide you on whether testing is advisable for your specific site.
If you have more questions — big or small — just ask. We’re happy to talk through any part of the process and make sure you feel confident and informed from day one.
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