FEES

How are architect's fees usually set?
Architects' fees are set by negotiation with their clients. In many instances architects will calculate the amount for which they can afford to provide the service and quote that amount to the client, who will accept it as reasonable. In some cases, there will be a series of offers and counter offers between architect and prospective client until a precise list of services is agreed upon for the fee that the client can afford.

What are the disadvantages of fee bidding?
Fee bidding is just about the worst way to select your architect. It is a means of selection whereby you ask a number of architects to submit their fees and the lowest fee usually wins the job. Fee bidding is false economy because it is unlikely to result in the best architectural services for you.

In architecture, as in most things, time is money. A large part of the cost of architectural services is for an architect's time. When the main reason for selection is the fee, architectural firms are likely to reduce the time they allocate to your project to minimise their costs and enable them to bid lower. This is false economy because you reduce the time your architect will spend on getting the most value for money on the construction of your project.

The sorts of things that are likely to be foregone if time is tight include:
optimising site use; designing to minimise maintenance costs;
minimising energy costs during the life of the building" and producing a superb design rather than just a good one.

Depending on the project type, architects' fees generally range between 0.1% and 1% of the life cycle cost of a project. "Life cycle cost" is the total cost of the building over its useful life. A substantial reduction in architects' fees produces only a minor saving in initial costs but may result in substantial increases in the building's life cycle cost.

Why should I select the best architect, not the cheapest?
Selecting the best architect for your project is likely to result in a building that precisely meets your needs, a building that you are proud of and a project where you maximise value for money.

THINKING OF BUILDING?

· Thinking of building but don't know where to start?
· Looking for independent advice on building?
· On a tight budget but keen to add value to your property?
· In need of an economical solution for:
     - Building on a steep narrow difficult slide?
     - Re-organising your office or factory?
     - Extending your home and maximising available space?
Then . . .

TALK TO AN ARCHITECT !

Why an Architect?
Using a Architect can save you money because:

· They have an in-depth knowledge of the building process and the most economical, efficient way to achieve what you want.

· They can plan and manage a project from start to finish thus avoiding costly mistakes.

· They have the experience to deliver your project on budget and on time.

An Architect can advise you on all aspects of building including:
· Designing and planning
· Undertaking feasibility studies
· Selecting and managing the project team
· Designing the interiors
· Landscaping and surrounds
· Maintaining the building

Architects are experienced in co-ordinating project teams including builders, sub contractors, landscape architects, engineers, quantity surveyors and interior designers.
Architects are qualified independent professionals who are bound by a Code of Professional Conduct and are legally registered to practice by State and Territory Registration Boards.
Architects undertake continuing professional development so they are up to date with the latest technology.

An Architect will listen carefully to what YOU want!
· They will provide design concept and cost information.
· Their design will consider important things such as site conditions, the sun and views so you get the best design for your budget.
· Your RAIA Architect will also prepare technical drawings and specifications for building approvals and for construction of your project.

3 Easy Steps to Selecting Your Architect

1. Before you look for the right Architect, have an idea in your own mind what it is you are trying to achieve with the upcoming project.

2. Discuss your project, the service you require and the likely fees with the Architect you are considering.

3. Look at examples of projects they have done and talk to former clients.

- Contact Barrelle Guirguis Architects today -

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