This article is a perfect example of why contractors should not give “free estimates” without drawings and/or specifications.

The contractor presented a design agreement to his potential client, with a $3,000 fee to design the job, 1/2 of the fee would be credited back when a contract was signed for the final job.

If you want your contractor to be professional, you should expect him to be, and the above is a perfect example of a contractor treating the owners of a project with total professionalism.  If you don’t work for free, then you can stay in business to provide your services.