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News Flash!
News Flash!
Sounds crazy but it's true. Hiring an architect for your new home, additions and renovations, will actually save you money on both the initial build, and for years to come.
Well it is the architect who is the certified and licensed professional with years of education, training and experience to help you through the whole design building process to help you construct an efficient and economical home of your dreams, distinctive to your style and personal needs rather than a pre-designed home out of a book with no personal thought to your specific lifestyle. The question is do you want a home that fits your wants & needs and has better re-sale value or do you just want to buy a house "of the rack"
The builder or contractor you chose is also very important. An architect can help you choose a qualified builder since they know the right questions to ask and understands every aspect of building. The truth of the matter is that in this state a builder or contractor does not have to have any special degrees, training or licenses. An architect however, has to go through a five year accredited degree program at an approved University. Then they have to work for a licensed architect for a minimum of three years before they are even eligible to take and pass the nine exams required before they can even apply for a license and call themselves a Registered Architect. These exams take about two years to study for and complete and the different exams cover every aspect of building from site planning and excavation, to electrical, structural, mechanical, plumbing, etc... A good architect knows every job of every contractor and sub-contractor.
Once an architect has their license they have to complete 14 credit hours of continuing education each year just to keep their license. These continuing education classes keeps them updated on the latest and greatest building products that may be more cost effective, efficient, and economical than the builders market may be currently using. This knowledge alone could save you thousands of dollars up front in your design and build process and will continue to save you money for years to come. Not to mention the fact that these newer products can make your life better and easier at home as well as protect your investment in the resale value in the future.
Architects see the bigger picture and create living and working environments that meet your current needs and potential needs in the future. With their broad knowledge they could show you ideas you never even thought of. You'll end up with a better and well-designed building, and as a realtor I can tell you that a well-designed building sells and sells quicker and at a higher price.
A good architect is right there with you every step of the way. They don't just drop off the drawings and leave. They help you choose the right contract for your particular project. They help you with the budget and the bids. Throughout the build process the architect will visit the construction sites frequently to protect your interests and make sure everything is going according to plan. An architect gives you the added bonus of knowing all the building codes and zoning laws, and can give you piece of mind that you've got someone watching your back.
Architects can help you create a well-designed project that works within your time frame and budget. As even Bob Vila, the renowned home improvement specialist, puts it right there on his own web site, www.Bobvila.com, "The services of an architect are a wise investment for the money and not an added cost to your project because a well-conceived project can be built more efficiently and economically. Architects plan your project with you. As your ideas evolve, changes can be made on paper or the computer-much less expensively than later on when construction is underway. Plus an architects drawings make it easier for a contractor to accurately price and build your home or office."
Bob Vila uses an architect on every one of his projects, shouldn't you? Check out www.bobvila.com for more information on why to hire an architect. You can also check out www.gardenhomearchitects.com and look for their article on "The Case for Hiring an Architect". When trying to find an architect in your area make sure he is a licensed RA, (registered architect) and has AIA after his name, American Institute of Architects. If he is AIA you know he is licensed, registered and insured. You can check out the AIA.org web site to find a qualified architect in your area or check up on architect's credentials.
By: Lisa Alexander
Certified Eco Broker
