Follow tips when hiring remodeler
Finding the appropriate design, building or design builder professional for your project is not a difficult task. The steps are similar to those you would take in locating any qualified professional.
First, you will need to compile a list of potential candidates. Start by asking friends, relatives and business associates. There are several organizations such as the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) that may provide you with a list of names and phone numbers of professional members in your area.
• Select your professional — Now you’re ready for the next step: a call to each name on your list. Take notes. Introduce yourself and then describe the project you have in mind, a new home addition or renovation. The point of each call is to construct a summary profile of the individual or firm. Be specific with your questions. Realistically, you should cut your list down to a manageable two to three.
• The interview — Perhaps the most awkward time during your search for a compatible design or building professional is the interview meeting. Your housing needs, goals and finances will be the focus of this candid discussion. It’s essential to learn sufficient background information about an individual or firm before you engage their services. The building professional is attempting to do the same thing: to evaluate you as a potential client. Keep any photos of ideas you’ve collected.
• Compensation — There is no hard-and-fast rule as to how an architect or building designer will charge for their services. This is often confusing for first-time clients. Fees can be established in any number of ways, taking into account a variety of factors specific to the project in question.
• The agreement — Any working relationship begins with a clear, welldocumented mutual understanding. Your agreement should indicate the scope of the proposed project and the specific services you expect to be provided, linked to a basic fee structure as well as the terms of payment for services rendered.