Architect’s fees can be based on a percentage of the total construction cost, on time expended, or a lump sum. You can select all or part of an architect’s service, from an initial design discussion through to the final delivery of the project on site.

Once you have selected your architect, you discuss in detail the list of services which you will need for your project. Your architect can prepare a Detailed Task List setting out each of the services you agree will be provided by the architect. He or she will then present to you the fee necessary to provide that range of services. If you feel the fee is not manageable for you, you and your architect can discuss eliminating services, and reducing the fee, until it is acceptable. While it may be tempting to simply continue to reduce levels of service in order to bring down the fee, remember that it is in your ultimate best interest to make sure your architect will provide the necessary level of service to protect you and your investment, and meet the standards of service established by the profession.