Why do I need to reveal what I am willing to spend?

Although preliminary cost estimates are useful, contractors don't like to give "ballpark prices", because they are merely educated guesses that will never be forgotten.  When asked for one, the contractor is wondering if he should hedge on the low side to avoid scaring the prospect away, or on the high side to protect himself.  Neither alternative is very attractive.  A rule of thumb is that a free estimate is worth what it costs.

When contractors are reluctant to give preliminary estimates, they are not being difficult or evasive.  They want to serve the customer with more useful information, such as an accurate estimate customized to the particular elements of the specific project.  Since accurate estimates are time-consuming, they are rarely given away for free.  It can take from a few hours for a very simple project to forty or more hours for a large remodel.  Contractors who offer "free estimates" are likely to take shortcuts, yielding an inaccurate estimate.  Also, they will ultimately need to recoup the cost of the estimating by charging more for the work. 

Establish a budget as soon as possible, and design to it.  If the project is over-designed, no amount of efficient management will be able to bring costs back in line.  Having the design in-synch with the budget from the beginning by a design/build contractor will save time, money, and frustration.

a quality custom home and remodel contractor.