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FINDING THE RIGHT ARCHITECT FOR BUILDING YOUR NEW HOME
20% of people looking to buy a new home, are looking
to build or construct a new house. If you are interested in
constructing a custom home, the first thing you are going to need to
do is find
the right architect.
Architects are not cheap. Typically an architect's fee
will increase the cost of your new home by about 10%.
Don't worry though, you will make this cost back when you
eventually sell your home. Working with a good architect
will be worth every penny. You'll have the luxury of someone carefully working with
you to develop the home of your dreams. Also note that you
can factor the price of the architect into a
new home construction loan.
Finding a good architect is not easy. Below we offer some
tips that will help you select an architect that is right
for your needs.
Meet with a Few Architects
You definitely are going to want to 'interview' several
different architects. You want to make sure that the
architect you are going to use has the same vision as you
about the development of your new home.
All good architects will have a portfolio for you to look
at. If you meet with one that does not, then you do not
want to work them. You are going to be investing a great
deal of money into whoever you decide to let build your
dream house. You want to be confident that you are working
with someone that knows what they are doing, and can make
your visions a reality. When looking at a portfolio, you
obviously have to like their work.
Ask any architect that you are interested in if they have
any referrals you can contact and/or if they can take you
to a finished house for you to see and inspect. Find out
from their past clients if the work was done on time.
Additional questions to ask: Was the architect nice? Did
they accommodate their needs and want? Did the finished
product cost the quoted price?
Where to Find an Architect
Referrals are always the best source. But if you do not
know anyone that can suggest a good architect, you can
contact the American
Institute of Architects. They will be able to refer
you to some architects in your area. You are still going
to have be diligent in your search for finding the right
architect for your needs and perform the above
suggestions.
Don't look for the cheapest price!
When selecting an architect, don't look to choose the
one that has the lowest price. Just like with many things
in life, you get what you pay for. Good architects will
tend to be slightly pricier than just average ones.
Finding a good architect is not easy, and will take some
time. Just keep in mind any time you start to get
frustrated, that once you find the right architect, you
will eventually have the exact home that you want.
Ask if a home warranty will be offered!
Any good contractor will have no problem insuring
their work by offering a
new home warranty.
Once you find a good architect, you need to
choose a contractor.
Learn about a
new home construction loan.
Building a New Home:
Choosing a Builder
The Benefits of Using a Custom Builder
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