Starting a Project

In the Process: Hiring an Architect, I explained the process of hiring an architect; specifically, how to hire me! In this post, I help you understand what you, as a client, can do to initiate your project. Whether building on vacant land or renovating an existing residential or commercial building, there is a list of information you need and questions you will have to answer.

First, ask yourself if you have the time and money needed to start a new project. You will need to dedicate time to planning, research, and determining if and why you want to start this new project. Once you've completed this step, decide if you have enough money to pay for surveys, professional services (e.g., architects, engineers, lawyers, etc.) and other start-up costs. Costs will vary and are based on the type of project you initiate.

Once you've confirmed you have the time and money, zero in on the project type. This step will require additional research. Whether building a new house for rental income or a new commercial development, how your property is zoned determines what you can and can't do. Every property has a zoning classification that is categorized as residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, or mixed-use. Contact your city or county planning department to obtain your property's zoning classification as well as a list of allowable uses. In some cases, you may have to apply to get your property rezoned (if there is a particular use you want to use your property for that is not allowed by your current property's zoning classification).

By completing this initial research before initiating your project, you can save money, energy, and heartache by not starting a project without understanding what it takes to complete it successfully.

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