How to Find the Right Architect

Finding the right architect for the job is an essential beginning to your custom home-building project.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Attorney referral services
• Personal organizers
• Contractor referral services

1. Ask for some recommendations. Check with friends, relatives, co-workers and the real estate agent who sold you your lot.

2. Inquire about the architect on any houses you see under construction that you particularly like. The blueprints on file with the town building department will have the architect's name and address.

3. Interview several architects.

4. Discuss your ideas with the candidates. Bring any sketches you've made.

5. Consider how closely the architect pays attention to your description of what you want in a house.

6. Review several plans that the architect has completed in the past.

7. Ask for client references, particularly those who have been living in their new homes for a while.

8. Contact the references without the architect present. Ask the owners about both the experience of working with the architect and how well their new houses matched their expectations.

9. Select the architect you feel most comfortable with.

10. Have your attorney review the contract for the architect's services.

11. Execute the contract and begin design work.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to negotiate a flat fee for the entire design project. Hourly fees can result in disputes, particularly when you feel that excessive hours were required because the architect didn't listen to your directions.
• Make sure that the architect is familiar with the building site.

on 11/22/2005 It's hard to compare fees unless you're clear about the services you're getting. Is the architect simply providing very basic drawings with minimal details or providing comprehensive drawings & specs including structural, HVAC, electrical & plumbing?

on 11/22/2005 Compare fees for services: Are services detailed and comprehensive or sketchy? Is interior, landscape and structural engineering included? Are detailed models, extensive meetings with a
local neighborhood agency included? Fees range from 5% to 15+%.

on 11/22/2005 Don't hire an architect based on fee alone; be sure he or she has experience in your particular building type. Architects can offer varying levels of service. Review with your architect exactly what services you require (construction, admin., etc.).

on 11/22/2005 Try to negotiate a contract based on an hourly rate with a not-to-exceed cap. This way you benefit if the architect goes over the budget or is under budget.