Are you planning to start a construction project? If the answer is yes, then I'm sure that your first step will be to hire a contractor and get rough estimates based on sketchy drawings. However, you'll be surprised to know that this is one of the basic mistakes that most people make. So you're first step should be to make a good estimation of the budget amount required for the project. Keep in mind to ask only experienced and licensed architects. Here are some of the basic services that an architect can offer you:

Zoning and Site Analysis: In this step you'll be able to know the extent of building allowed on the property. It will also inform you about the uses of the space and parking required.

Programming & Preliminary Design: Based on the information available from the first step you'll be able to design sketches of your needs and budget. Make sure the drawings include floor plans and perhaps one elevation (to scale) to name a few.

Design Development: After your designs are approved your next step will be to finalize the design process. Some of the things that you'll be told in this step are room and building dimensions, locations of windows, interior finishes and a variety of the building's systems that are relevant to the design.

Construction Documents: In this step you get to know different local and state codes as well as detailed dimensions and detailed drawings for the contractor to bid the job.

Proper Communication: It is very important to have proper communication between the architect,contractor, building department and sometimes the trades.

Expediting: It is a known fact that every job requires filling of building department, permits and certificate of occupancy. You should ask your architect what services he provides relating to this step.

FEES: Generally, an architect charge in three ways:

Percentage of Construction Cost – This amount is basically calculated on the basis of the preliminary budget after taking into account the construction/finishes/demolition/structural changes etc. For example, if your preliminary budget is $100,000 then the fees of the architect should be around $7,000. make sure that the architect outlines his hourly rates in a written proposal.
Lump Sum – In this step the architect gives you a lump sum fee depending on his experience with your building type.
Hourly Rate – Usually, architects are able to give a rough estimate of the hours they think the project will require.

Make sure all these points are covered in the contract. Before you hire or contact an architect, consider the proof of insurance, license (in your state) and a solid look at his portfolio.

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