Asking How Much Something Costs

Scene: You are on a video call with a design studio. Rosa has just finished describing the work. It sounds good. Nobody has said a number yet, and the call is nearly over. You have to ask. Here is the version that does not feel awkward.

You: This all sounds right to me. Before we go further, can I ask about cost? I do not need an exact quote today. A ballpark figure is enough. Our budget for this is around eight thousand dollars. Does that sound close to what you would charge?

Rosa: Thanks for saying the number first, that helps. For this scope we usually charge nine to eleven thousand. That covers the research, three rounds of design, and the final files. Eight is a little tight, but it is not far off. I can work with that range.

You: Good. Two quick questions. Is that a one-off cost, or is there a monthly fee after launch? And could you break the number down for me? I would like to see the design and the research as separate lines. Then I can send it in writing to my manager.

Rosa: All one-off. Hosting is the only monthly cost, and that is not ours. I will send a written quote by Thursday, broken down line by line, with the total at the bottom. Nothing in it will surprise you. If your manager wants a call, I am happy to join.