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Choosing an architect to design your home is a project onto itself. If you approach it as such your chances for success and happiness will greatly increase. As with any project that you manage preparation is the key, there is no substitute for doing your homework.

The Pre-Selection Stage:

Before you rush head long into choosing an architect for your future home, there are a few steps that must be taken to ensure success.

First is establishing a budget. How much money do you have for this phase of your construction project is essential. When establishing a budget do your homework on the current costs associated with hiring an architect in your area. Shop and compare. Make calls to different architectural firms, ask different real estate agents, and start a list of potential candidate and their associated costs. Most of all remember to add a contingency amount to the budget for unforeseen risks and over runs, always be prepared for the unexpected.

Second, establish a schedule for the design project. Establish a time-line for the building of your home, and work backwards from there. This will give you a rough estimate as to when you need your new design finished. This will become a topic of discussion when you prepare to meet the architect.

Third, select a list of potential candidates to meet with. After you make a list of candidates, prepare a list of questions to ask the candidates, after all, this is an interview process and you need to be prepared. Your list of questions should address several basic topics including:

1) How long will the design project take, and does it meet your schedule.
2) Who exactly will be assigned to the design project, will it be the person you are interviewing or an associate.
3) What are the firm's qualifications, current and past design projects, and professional credentials.
4) What are the design philosophies of the firm, and do they meet your vision for this project.

Interview Process:

When you interview each potential candidate take notes, ask questions, and get a general feel for the relationship you are about to form. Does the person seem reasonable to work with? Does he seem rushed? Is he wanting to pawn you off on an associate? Will he have time for your project?

Remember that the most important part of this process is finding the right fit for your specific project. The best architect in the world will not do you a bit of good if he is not the right one for you. He could have designed the Taj Mahal for instance and it wouldn't matter

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