How to Find the Right Architect for Your House Plans

By  //  May 22, 2021

It is always exciting to engage in a building construction or renovation project. You have ideas for the new dream place but to actualize it, you need the right architect to help you.

Whether you choose to get a house plan online or contract architects for these designs, you will surely want things to be done properly.

A house plan will determine how your new home will look. And if you have a ready-made plan, the architect you choose to hire will help you make necessary changes and ensure you get the dream house. Do you need a house plan soon? You can find some available online.

For instance, House Plans by Truoba Architects offer some of the best options for those who need a plan layout. There are various options available, and sizes, lengths, and styles are taken into consideration. You can choose to get pre-built plans or customized ones. The choice is yours. However, before deciding to choose an architect online, there are certain factors to consider.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Architect

Here are some things to consider:

1. Referrals from Your Network

Family, acquaintances, co-workers, and friends are a network of people to rely on when you need help. They may have hired an architect in the past or have bought a plan layout online. Ask them for help. 

Aside from them, you can try asking your realtor, plumber, and other professionals who might know any architect. Their referrals may turn out to be great.

2. Online Research

Much information is available on the web, so you can use it to your advantage. While searching for architects or designers, ensure you research about their company. Examine their website to get more information about their reputation, experience, and the quality of their services. 

Carry out further research on review sites about what their past clients say about their past jobs. Do they follow directions? How is communication with them like? Try to find answers to these questions through the testimonials left by former clients.

3. Check Their Portfolio

Many architects display their past work on the website; the plans they created and the aesthetic value of the buildings. Check if their styles and designs match what you want for your dream house.

4. Check for License and Certifications

Some designers may not be architects, so they do not need a license. But if you wish to hire an architect for your design plan, you need one with a license and a good status. You also need one with the necessary certifications. This shows that the team is made up of qualified and trained professionals that can draft out a house plan design in no time.

5. Find Out What the Pricing Involves

Prices vary from one architect to the other. It may also depend on the project design and the services rendered. Some architects might include pricing online, while others may want you to contact them. Some may charge per hour, while others might have a specific price range.

This means that when making inquiries about the pricing, ensure to confirm how they accept payments and what it will involve. If you are on a budget, discuss this with them. There are professionals who will design house plans incorporating a budget. 

6. Ask for a Consultation

This consultation is like an interview where you learn about these architects and their services. It helps you know their communication methods and if they’d listen to your ideas. During this meeting, you can discuss anything from pricing to how long it will take them to create the design.

This consultation may not necessarily mean the architect is hired already. It is rather a way to determine whether they are the right choice. They may come with a gallery of their past works. Examine this carefully and briefly discuss the one you like or do not.

Also, ask important questions such as:

Have you done a project like what I want?

■ Do you have a license?

■ What is your pricing like?

■ Do you allow clients to have a say during the design?

■ How do you communicate with clients? Through calls, emails, or texts?

■ How long will this project take?

A professional architect will be willing to give a sincere and concise answer to each question.

Conclusion

Architects can create house plans for the house of your dreams. There are pre-made designs and custom-made designs. Whether you choose to get an already designed house plan or hire an architect to help you out, ensure you consider the factors discussed in this article before making your decision.