The Building Process: Do You Need to Hire an Architect or a Contractor First?

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Ideally, you want to find both the architect and contractor before you start designing your home, that way you can properly plan and make sure you’re within budget. Although, finding an architect is the very first step.

At Paterson Development, we don’t get paid until construction begins but we offer to help from the very beginning, free of charge. We can set you up with qualified architects and engineers, as well as attend all meetings to discuss the design of your future home. Even if you decide not to go with us, you will never receive a bill for this portion of our services.

Picking a Great Residential Architect

Finding the right architect for your project might not be easy – unless you enlist our help! – but it is an important step in the process of building your dream home. The architect should fully grasp your vision and then work to bring it to life. They must have the foresight, experience and know-how to get the job done, while also smoothly navigating the important process of working alongside contractors, pushing plans through the permitting process, and so forth.

An architect is a licensed by the state to design residential homes as well as to oversee construction from start to finish. Architectural designers differ in that they are not usually licensed. It’s important to invest in a licensed residential architect for the best results.

If you are finding an architect on your own you could start by scanning through the American Institute of Architects tool, this will help narrow down architects in your area. From there, it becomes your mission to research all of the available options.

Set up consultations with your top picks to see if you get along and share the same vision. This is your chance to discuss your ultimate goals, as well as the architect’s fee structure and costs. Check to make sure the architect is insured, and it never hurts to ask for references. Projected time to complete the project, as well as mutual expectations are other important things to discuss at your initial meetings.

We take a lot of the footwork out of the equation, setting you up with qualified architects at zero cost to you. Even if you decide not to work with us, you can still work with the architect we set you up with. Our longstanding experience in the industry gives us the knowledge to pick leading architects who know how to get the job done right.

Architect vs Builder – What’s the Difference?

The architect is driven to produce a certain aesthetic, a design that checks all of the boxes for both beauty and design. While a custom builder is after the same overall goal, they are also concerned with maintaining good construction methods and keeping the budget on track. Together, these unique professionals bring a host of talent and experience to your project. For utmost success, they must communicate along the way and work as flexible team players.

Working with Paterson Development

We can help facilitate your project from start to finish – starting with the very first meetings, as well as setting you up with reputable architects and engineers. Once the initial plans are completed, we provide a detailed estimate of costs. If we win your bid, that’s when we get paid.

Anything we put into your project prior to winning your bid is done free of charge – and happily so. We want you to get to know us and feel comfortable with your decision to work with us, if that’s what you choose. No hassles, no pressure, no obligations! You have nothing to lose. Contact us today to learn more or to get started.