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if your tastes match theirs. It's always easiest to work with someone of a like mind.

Once you have seen samples, ask for references. Meet the people that contracted the architect in the past. Again, be prepared, with questions to ask the homeowners, such as how budget concerns were met, or how willing the professional was to integrate the desires of the client. Was the work completed on time? Did the work remain within the operating budget? If not, by what percentage, did the job exceed expectations? Are they happy with their new home? If there was anything they could change, what would it be? Was the professional, personable and easy to understand? Did they give the client ample opportunity to ask questions, or discuss design or changes? These are just a few examples of the sorts of questions one can ask a former client.

If your questions and concerns are well met, take your candidates to the building site. Be sure to ask them, if they have experience working with the site that you've purchased. Pick their brains, perhaps, they have suggestions for you, that you might not have thought of on your own.

Make notes of each encounter after you've completed it. These will help you to recall points you liked or disliked in the professional.

It's important that you get on well with your architect. Never discount the importance of feeling comfortable with an individual. Chemistry between you is imperative, with a venture as important as creating your dream home. With ease of communication, trust between you is easily built. Don't be afraid to speak up, when you don't understand something.

Be sure to ask the architect how busy their firm is. Do they believe they have time to take on a project such as yours, and will they have time and personnel to devote to you and your concerns?

After you've completed your meetings it's time to make a decision. Once you have contacted your professional with your decision to go ahead with them, be sure to get the details of your project in writing. Have your lawyer look it over, and explain to you anything, that you're uncertain of.

Another consideration, perhaps the main one, is how the architect will bill you for their services. There are a number of ways to do so, some choosing to base their charge on square footage of the structure, some, a set fee, and others still, a percentage of the building cost. This is also a matter to discuss before hand. The more you know, the better prepared you will be for the experience.

Take responsibility. Be sure to voice your desires clearly. Make time to meet and discuss with the architect. Be present at the meeting, with your family. Don't entrust your decisions to others, or be prepared to live with their choices.

Building your dream home can be an exciting and rewarding time-a one of a kind experience. The greatest successes happen, when the client and architect work together closely, and understand each other well.

A home designed and created by an architect will carry with it an intrinsic value, that, should you ever decide to sell your home, will elevate it above others on the market. The care and investment you make now, will pay dividends for years to come.

You've worked hard. With the right architect, your well earned dream, will become a reality.

Learn more about this author, Elizabeth Clark.
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