How to Select the Best Architects for House Plans
Do you need an architect? Here are the steps you need to take to find the right one for you.
compile a list
You should compile a list of the most reputable architects you have come across or heard of. If you don’t know any professionals, you should ask your friends or family to recommend ones they know. When you get a recommendation, you should visit the building and inspect the quality of the construction.
You should also consult several people who have worked with the architect and find out if he is easy to work with. You should also ask if the architect completed the project on time and stayed within budget.
If you like the professional’s work, you should get his contact information and contact him later for an interview.
Conduct your interviews
It’s good to start with phone interviews. When doing the interview you must remember that architects are highly paid professionals; therefore, you should not waste much of the professional’s time.
To be on the safe side, you should have a list of questions that you would like to ask. A good architect will take time to answer your questions. You should ask questions about experience, design principles, and anything else you feel is necessary.
After doing the phone interview, you should narrow your list down to the top three or five candidates who answered your questions correctly. You should then schedule a time to meet in person. When you meet, you should ask more questions related to the services offered, design principles, fees charged, and insurance.
To save money, you should work with an architect who offers a full range of services. For example, you should offer schematic design, bid assistance, construction documents, design development, and construction management.
When it comes to the fees charged, it’s good to keep in mind that some architects charge an hourly rate while others have a flat rate. If the professional charges an hourly rate, he should find out if there is a guaranteed maximum cost.
Conclution
Here are the steps you need to follow to select the right architect for your house plan. After interviewing all the professionals, you should take your time and compare them.
To make your decision you must consider the professionalism and personality of the candidate. As a general rule, the architect should be both professional and fun to work with.
