This information is simply an overview of the design process, and should be reviewed with your architect. Building a custom home is an involved process, so don't be afraid to ask questions. The purpose of this guide is to provide prospective clients with a general understanding of the design and construction process.

The following are some of the things that you can do to help organize and communicate your thoughts.

• Start a picture file of anything you see that you like. This file can contain newspaper articles, magazine clippings, photographs, sketches, and promotional literature.
  
• Start a list of things that you like and dislike about the home you now live in.
  
• Describe your daily routine on a typical work day, and a typical weekend.

Selecting an architect is one of the first and most important decisions you should make when planning your new home. You may even benefit from consulting with your architect prior to selecting to a lot. Your best option is to hire the architect who sent you this information. However, if you feel you must consider some of our competitors there are several important considerations to make in this selection process:

• How much prior experience does the Architect have with the building type that you are planning?
  
• What services does the Architect include in his proposal?
  • Is he planning to use a structural engineer?
  • Is he planning to use a landscape architect?
  • Is a model or 3-D illustration included?
    
• How does his design approach allow for your input?
  
  Hiring an architect is a cost effective decision for the following reasons:
  
• Poor planning can result in construction problems that can be much more than the architect's fee.
  
• Improved aesthetic value will result in improved resale value.
  
• An architect can make you aware of design features that will save you money on energy usage, heating, and cooling equipment, code compliance, maintenance, and insurance.
  
  Get the architect involved early in the process. The following are some of the areas where an architect can save you time, money, and effort.
  
• Site Selection - An architect can alert you to factors which will affect construction cost.
  
• Programming - An architect can help you evaluate your current and future needs.
  
• Design - An architect can help you evaluate the most efficient uses for your money and space.
  
• Governmental Regulations - An architect who is familiar with the local building requirements can speed the approval process. He may also recommend alternative ways of satisfying regulations that save money.
  
• Construction - An architect can evaluate the quality of construction, and act as an unbiased intermediary between the Owner and Contractor.

One important decision that you will make when planning to build a new home is how you will select a builder. This decision can have a significant impact on the quality of construction, and your overall satisfaction with the project. If your architect is located in the area where you plan to build he will be familiar with the local builders and should assist you in making this decision. The two most popular methods of selecting a builder are "Competitive Bidding" and "Design Build".

The traditional method of selecting a contractor is by issuing the architect's construction documents to an invited group of builders for Competitive Bidding.

In this approach the quality of the house is determined by carefully specifying all systems and installation procedures.

The architect estimates the construction cost based on his experience with similar building types in the area.

The primary advantage of this approach is that the owner is assured that the construction cost he pays is a competitive price. This method is most effective when the builders are "hungry".

The "Design Build" approach is another popular method of selecting a builder.

• In this approach the contractor is selected early in the design process and works with the Owner and Architect to assure that the design solution is as cost effective as possible considering the fluctuating costs of labor and building materials.
  
• The general quality of building components are determined by visiting existing homes built by the contractor and reviewing his specifications. The architect can specify alternative components for any item which the architect and owner do not approve. (e.g. windows, doors, cabinets... )
  
• Construction cost estimates are provided by the builder based on the architect's drawings and specifications.
  
• This approach has the following advantages for the owner:
  
  • The contractor provides construction cost estimates as the design develops, thereby minimizing the possibility that the final design will exceed the budget.
    
  • The contractor is able to build the structure according to his own specifications (as modified by the owner and architect) thereby taking advantage of current labor and material bargains.
    
  • The Owner has a better chance to get to know the builder and establish a comfort level before construction begins.
    
  • Because the architect and builder have developed the design as a team, construction problems that do arise can usually be resolved quickly and effectively.
    
  • This method is most effective when builders are in demand.
    

It is important that you have an agreement directly with the architect. If the architect is hired by the builder his loyalties may be divided. You will benefit from the unbiased advice of an architect during construction. Every locality has it's own unique conditions. The barrier islands of South Carolina, for example, are subject to high winds, flooding, seismic activity, and a host of governmental regulations. Be sure that your architect is fully aware of all the conditions present in the locality of your site.

There are many other scenarios that can lead to an unsuccessful project. The most important thing is to have a knowledgeable, independent, building professional in your corner.