ᐅ Cost for landscaping design / exterior site planning

Hello,
I wanted to ask how you approached the planning of your outdoor areas.
Because of the slope of our land, we need a professional in two different directions.
I have contacted various landscaping companies and received very different responses.
At first, it’s all about the planning... I understand that this has a cost, but no one really gives clear information, except for two:
- Provider 1: Planning 400 euros + tax, with 50% credited if the contract is awarded
- Provider 2: Planning 750 euros - tax, with 20% credited if the contract is awarded
All the other providers are evasive; how am I supposed to find a suitable one?

Do these companies then provide a (realistic) cost estimate?

What is common practice for the planning phase?
Thanks, Hilly

If a company cannot provide you with a suitable cost estimate, you simply should not give them the contract. Otherwise, you might end up in a difficult situation. Tell the other providers the same; maybe they will reconsider and give you some figures.