I am planning to build a house for my family. It's relatively simple and modest by modern American standards. I plan to do much of the work myself, and want to keep costs down.
I have been working on some designs, but I wonder what a professional would bring to the table. Some guesses:
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Easier time at the permit office, as architect knows the codes, draws pretty pictures, and the permit officer knows what to expect.
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Architect will offer clever solutions to difficult problems.
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Architect will be able to "see" the completed house, from drawings, better than I can, and knows what will work well.
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Architect will cost an arm and a leg.
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Architect will want a house to be fancy or make a statement about society.
Best Answer
Yes. And in many districts, it is a requirement to have an architect design while an engineer examines and seals the plans.