How do I find a good architect in Fort Worth?
Start by searching online for the top-rated architects in the Fort Worth area. Review their profiles for information about their past clients and completed projects, and read their customer reviews. Although it’s a good idea to avoid architects with too many negative reviews, you should also pay attention to how they respond to criticism. Firms that are actively involved in customer care may be a good choice.
Before you hire an architect, ask them to provide a copy of their business registration and license. Or, you can try searching for this information on their profiles or by visiting the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners.
After you’ve identified the pros who have great reputations and the required credentials in Fort Worth, it’s time to ask for cost estimates. Ask at least three architects to send you free price quotes for your budget. Hire the pro who offers fair, competitive prices and high-quality work.
How do I hire the best general contractor in Fort Worth?
Search online to find the best general contractors in Fort Worth, and read the customer reviews. Try to narrow your search to a few reputable contractors, and make sure the contractor offers the services you need (for example, new construction or plumbing).
Contractors in Texas should always have up-to-date insurance and licenses. And before you hire, ask several contractors in the Fort Worth area to send you free cost estimates.
How do architects work?
Architects may work for an architecture or engineering firm, they may work for a government organization, they can work for a construction company, or they may be self-employed (freelance). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that architects spend a large amount of their working time in the home or company office: meeting with clients; creating reports and architectural drawings; and working with other architects and engineers. When not in an office, an architect is often at the construction site either as part of the development of plans or to ensure building progress is following the blueprint.
When a client interacts with an architect, it is typically to have them design drawings for the construction of a house or a building. If you are a client who has hired a large architecture firm, there may be a team of people working on your design. But if you are working with a freelance architect or a smaller firm, one person (or a small group) will take your concept and translate it into an architectural blueprint that a builder can use to construct a house. The plans will lay out everything from the depth of the foundation to the materials to use to the type of metal to be used in the reinforcement. Once the plans have been created and handed off to the builder, the architect may remain on the project — depending on budget — and oversee progress.
How do architects charge for their services?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median salary of an architect in 2016 was $76,930. This range included architects with every type of company as well as self-employed architects. Depending on the architect and whether they’re with a firm or independent, they may charge per hour or by the square foot, or they may charge a percentage of the total budget for a construction project. An hourly rate is typically used for smaller projects such as providing consultation, helping clients hone their concept before the design process begins, or drafting documents and plans. If an architect is working on an hourly basis on a larger project, there will usually be an agreed-upon cap on the number of hours they will work. For larger projects, such as new construction or total overhaul remodels, architects may charge a percentage of the total construction costs. The architect will usually set the percentage you will pay after the total cost of construction has been accounted for. Percentages can range within a firm depending on the extent of the services they’re providing. For example, a lower percentage of the total construction costs may include drafting and minimal consultation and guidance along the way, while a higher percentage could include on-site project management services with every detail attended to. Architects may also charge by the square footage of the project. The rate per square foot can vary depending on the individual’s training, the services they are providing, the complexity of the project, and other factors — such as obtaining permits. The national average cost to hire an architect is between $1,690 and $2,500.
What do house plans consist of?
In a house plan, you can expect to see an overview of the construction site, floor plans, roof plans, foundation plans, electrical plans, exterior elevation and more. Always ask your architect what they plan to include in your house plan.
