Need remodel/addition advice and estimate for Santa Clara County

[Ashish Singhal]

Hi, First time home buyer here. We are in escrow for our primary SFH 3BR/2BTH 1100 sqft home, which is in original condition and looking for recommendations for expansion/remodel including

1) Looking for advice/recommendations for adding about 500 sq ft to add a new MBR suite with walking closed and full bath.I came to this 500 sqft figure, as I read that getting permits for something under 500sqft is easier and can be done over counter.

2) We also need to update existing 2 full bathrooms and do complete kitchen remodel

3)All cosmetics including new flooring, garage finish, new paint, knobs, switches etc.

Looking for advice here how should I approach different people. Per my relator, we should start with Architect and get the drawings.

1) Is it right approach. How much do reasonable architect charge for this kind of job.

2)What money should I be looking to pay for this remodel and addition.

3) How easy is to get permits with cover situation

4) Any other advice to make this task smooth and efficient.

Any referral for architecture firm to help with this job. Sorry I may have many questions coming up. Appreciate any inputs.

Thanks