One of the best investments you can make is to speak with an architect at the earliest stage of planning. There are hundreds of considerations and decisions to make, and costly mistakes potentially lie behind each of them.

Architects have the education, experience, and vision necessary to guide you through the entire design and construction process successfully-from helping you define what you want to build to helping you get the most for your construction dollar. Architects are the only professionals in the construction industry who are ethically bound to represent your interests.

Look for the AIA initials after the name of an architect you consider for your project. AIA architects remain current with professional standards through continuing education and subscribe to a code of ethics and professional conduct that assures dedication to high standards in professional practice. Involving an AIA architect at the earliest stage in project planning provides a better opportunity to analyze your needs, develop effective solutions, and propose more ways to reduce costs from the beginning.

From the American Institute of Architects