How long does your architect take to draw up plans?

[Mel C.]

I have been very frustrated with how long it takes my draftsman/architect team to draw up plans so I can submit to the town's zoning office for approval. This is in Central NJ.

Draftsman told me that a realistic time frame from onsite discussion to plans ready to submit is 2 months. In the meantime, my GC can't do anything until plans are submitted and approved, and I've got carrying costs all this time.

How long does it take for your architect to have ready-to-submit plans?

And if you're in Central NJ, and you have an architect that can do quick turnarounds, I sincerely would appreciate a name so I can use them for my next project!

PS I don't even know if I'm getting good value for what I'm paying for. As an example, I'm adding a whole second floor and bumping out the rear 2 feet, and plans cost me $4500...