Collaboration with an architect - how does it work properly?

Hello everyone,

I have been reading here in the forum for some time now and have also done some research on the subject.

But now I have a question. Because I still don’t quite understand how it works with the architect. I have understood that architects invoice their fees according to HOAI.

However, we are not yet 100% decided whether it should be a solid house planned by an architect in conjunction with a local builder or a prefabricated house. Among other things, the price is of course crucial for the decision. So in order to have comparison possibilities, we would need not only prefabricated house offers (we are already in initial talks there) but also a first floor plan from the architect, on the basis of which there is then a cost estimate or an offer.

But from when does the architect actually receive a fee? Already for the creation of a floor plan? Because if I then decide against it, I would have thrown money out the window, and I somehow don’t agree with that :eek:

So how does it work properly? Can I have an offer created for free? And do I have to pay attention to certain wording/agreements for that?

Thanks in advance for your help!

You have to negotiate with the architect about what else he will provide to you for free.

However, a first floor plan and a costestimate will probably not be enough to compare the offers. The final prices for both house types will only be determined after the selection of materials (prefabricated house) and completion (architect-designed house).

Ok, so there is already the possibility to receive initial offers more or less for free. That already helps us move forward.

Of course, the final prices are only really final after completion - but you have to expect something.

When commissioning an architect, one usually specifies the budget and then receives a plan that stays within the given framework. It is important to clarify in advance how far the acquisition goes and when a fee entitlement arises. A staged contract is also often helpful.
WD

Thank you for the hint!

Although you basically always do it that way, right? We haven't gathered that much experience yet... ;)

So, during the conversation with an FH provider that we have already had, we initially stated our price and other expectations, and he then suggested something from his range with appropriate adjustments. He will now calculate that, and then there will be a second appointment where we will see if our wishes fit with our budget.

We will have another appointment with an FH provider at the end of next week.

Hello,

before making our final decision, we also looked at the full range. So architect, turnkey solid construction, and turnkey as a timber frame prefabricated house.

With all providers, you should place great importance on the construction service description. Comparing these was not easy, but in the end very worthwhile.

You should also not overlook the incidental construction costs – some companies point out the incidental construction costs, others do not...

If you are interested, I can gladly send you the link to our construction blog – in which we have documented our decision-making process in detail.

Where in BW do you want to build?

Regards,

Dirk