Choosing the right architect is very important to the success of your real estate project. If you miss it at the point of selecting an architect for real estate, you should not expect a nice physical structure for your project in the end. Architects are responsible for the design, planning, and supervision of real estate projects. They work closely with the builders to ensure that your vision is brought to reality.
However, finding the ideal architect amidst the plethora of brands available, particularly in a bustling city like Lagos, can be a daunting task. To make an informed decision, several key factors warrant consideration. These include the architect’s experience, portfolio of past projects, pricing structure, and, perhaps most significantly, feedback from previous clients. Assessing these aspects will enable you to determine whether their skills align with your vision and project requirements.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the essential considerations for selecting the right architect for your real estate project. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you embark on your project with confidence, knowing that you have chosen an architect who possesses the expertise, creativity, and track record necessary to bring your dreams to fruition.
Understanding Your Real Estate Project
First, before you choose an architect, you must understand the peculiarities of your project. Identify the scope of your real estate project. What do you aim to achieve through this project? Do you aim to increase the value of the property? You may want to fully utilize your space or have a structure that reflects your style. This will help you choose the right architect.
Also, another thing you must consider is your budget and timeline. Determining this will assist you in knowing how long it will take for your project to be completed. When deciding your budget, you may want to consider the cost of the land, the cost of the architect’s service, cost of material and human labor. You do not wish to choose an architect whose price is beyond your budget.
Lastly, consider other factors beyond your control that may extend the timeline of your project, like weather or permit.
Researching Potential Architects
When choosing the right architect in Lagos for your project, it is crucial to do your background study of different choices to find the perfect fit. Some of the things you check are
Research Potential Architects
Whether you have a series of recommendations from people or you don’t, it is wise to conduct online research to identify a perfect fit.
First, check if your potential architect is registered with the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON). This is to ascertain they have the required qualifications and duly follow the professional standard that guides the profession.
Another thing you must research is the architect’s experience. Browse through their portfolios to see if they have handled similar projects. Familiarize yourself with their style of operation to see if it aligns with your vision. When checking through their portfolios, do not miss the client review section because nothing beats the word of a satisfied client.
Pay attention to any negative reviews the architect got from past projects. And see how well they respond to criticism.
Evaluating Architects
As it is impossible to make decisions based on online references, you will need to evaluate your potential architects. This you do by meeting them. You may put a phone call through to them or walk into their office to have a chat. Some of the things you discuss with them are their approach to work. Do not forget to relay to them the vision of your project.
Ask them about their design process project management and study their communication style. Ask for references from past clients and check their feedback. The essence is to ensure you select an architect that can best bring your vision to a magnanimous reality.
The last thing you would want is to hire an architect whose design process doesn’t align with your vision. And you would not want to contract your job to an architect that takes criticism very poorly.
Making Your Selection
If you have critically completed the previous tips highlighted in this article and you have gotten to this stage, that means you are ready to make a selection.
Request for proposals from the selected architects. Go through their proposals and choose the one that best aligns with your project goals.
Having made your selection, the next to do is negotiate the fees and contract terms. This is where your budget and timeline come to play. Discuss your budget with the architect and critically analyze the timeline.
Lastly, ensure all your agreements with the chosen architect are adequately documented for reference. This is to provide any of you don’t go against what was agreed.
Working with Your Architect
Congratulations, now you have hired an architect. It is now time to commence your project. Work closely with the architect and ensure you establish a clear line of communication.
Be intentional about collaborating with your architect throughout the design and construction process. Do not fail to address any issue or raise concerns when it is necessary during the project.
Conclusion
When choosing the right architect for your real estate project, you must first understand the scope of your project, identify your budget, research the potential architects, and evaluate them. Hiring the wrong architect can spell great doom for your project. That’s why you must ensure you find the right fit.
If you are still in doubt, you may contact Hybrid LandTech for a connection to the right architect for your project.