How to determine cost of hiring an architect

How to determine cost of hiring an architect tips, Online property designer hire advice, House design pricing guide

How to Determine the Cost of Hiring an Architect

23 August 2021

How to determine cost of hiring an architect

When you are in the market to hire an architect, be sure to conduct online research, ask for referrals, and request a cost estimate. Most architects provide estimates at no charge.

Here are a few other factors you can expect to impact your architectural costs:

How to Determine the Cost of Hiring an Architect Guide

  • Amount of square footage involved
  • Design complexity
  • Details required for specifications and finishes
  • Experience of the contractor
  • Quality of materials
  • Site complexity, especially as it relates to home additions

Your location also plays a big role in your overall cost because some communities are more resistant to change than others, such as coastal communities that want to preserve a certain appearance and atmosphere. If you live in townhomes governed by a homeowners’ association or a town with historic preservation regulations, you may not be able to add to your home the way you would like.

Calculating Architecture Costs

According to Angi (previously known as Angie’s List), the hourly rate of an architect can range between $100 to $250. Homeowners can also expect to pay another 10 percent of the overall project cost to cover the expense associated with drawings and renderings. For example, a $10,000 project could cost an additional $1,000 in architectural drawings.

Be sure that the architect views your home in person before providing you with a quote. Looking at the current condition of your home while considering the changes you would like to implement ensures that you receive an accurate estimate. Nothing is more frustrating for homeowners who budget for the cost of hiring an architect only to receive a bill for significantly more than they were expecting to pay.

Consider Working With a Contractor or Designer

A good way to control your costs is to offer your input to a general contractor during the planning phase. General contractors have received training to create basic blueprints, so this can be a good option if you do not have complex design plans. You can also consider hiring an interior designer to create a plan and then run it by the architect.

Keep in mind that these parties may have conflicts with one another. The best way to avoid this is to create a contract at the beginning of the project outlining specific steps to follow if a disagreement arises. You are within your rights as a homeowner to insist that all parties work well together and put your interests first.

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