Stock Plans vs. Hiring an Architect

Did you know that less than 2 percent of homes built today initially hire an Architect? 

You may think you’re getting a huge discount by buying stock plans. But, lets look at the facts:

• Many people hire an architect to correct or alter the stock plans they already purchased so you must add that cost into your estimation.
  
• The person who created the stock plans cannot get to know you and your needs.
  
• The person who sells you the stock plan cannot go to your site – remember; special sites require special plans. 
  
• Stock plans have a copyright and must be approved before changing designs. 
  
• Only your architect knows all of the options open to you depending upon several factors, including your budget.
  

Don’t underestimate the value of your architect getting to know you personally, being able to see building site physically, and the level of choices having your own architect will provide.

Your architect will meet with you and ask you questions to get to know you, such as, “Do you sit together as a family watching movies?” “Do you entertain a lot?” The answers you give can influence your plans in ways you may not have considered.

A good architect will also visit your site to look at various aspects of your site. He may look at how the sun affects your site and he will understand how the landscaping will influence your choices of materials and design.

An architect will also visit the site during construction to be sure that your house is being built according to the plans and specifications.  He will be able to assure a homeowner that his money is being spent wisely. This is a very good insurance policy to protect your largest investment.

When you use stock plans most of the materials that you use to assemble your home will be standardized to your plans, and not customized for you.

While you may get a few choices that feel customized the end result is that your house will not be a custom home. Your builder will not customize your house over a few set limitations, and if they do offer it, they will charge a premium to do so.

Unless you hire an Architect, the builder you hire, while talented, does not have the specialized training necessary to make unusual, complex or special designs. Any special needs may not be possible without hiring an architect.

Architects are licensed professionals just like a lawyer or a doctor, this means that they have completed very in depth training including internships and have passed difficult and rigorous exams giving them the knowledge you seek.

No one hires a mechanic to do surgical procedures, why hire anyone but a professional to build your home? A home is a very personal creation and deserves the utmost care and consideration. After all, you will be enjoying it for a very long time.

At the end of the day stock plans can end up costing you more than hiring an architect to start with.