re: New Home Quote

Well if you offer a bonus for early completion then you most certainly should have liquidated damages for not being complete.

Personally if they are so busy they should never take the plans and just say I can't get to you for x number of months. If it is a highly recommended builder and that is who you want then think about waiting and get on his or her list. (and yes I know a couple of very good women builders)

If there is nothing special about them - move on. And let them know it. "I need my drawings back as I am going to pursue someone else."