5 Basic Questions to Ask an Architect on Your First Meeting

Have you decided to put your dream home into reality? Choosing an architect in the Philippines to design your house won’t be a problem at all. Your dilemma will start when the planning stage starts. Even though you will hire one of the top notch architects in the Philippines, do you know the right questions to ask?

Consider this as if it is a job interview. This is your future house—your dream home—so everything must be perfect from day 0. It is not enough that you show the sketch you’ve drawn like the one below and say, “Do something like this” and be out of there. Well, it is needless to say that they will secretly snicker at your “design,” that is why it is best that you’re armed with questions such as:

1) Why should we hire you?

This is a kind of intimidating question after you’ve shown your own house design to one of the best architects in the Philippines. But it also lets you be in control. This is also the ‘getting to know stage’ since it is the first time you’ve met each other. They might be the perfect architect for the job but if you don’t have a good rapport with them then you will have a strenuous working relationship.

2) How many projects are you handling right now?

This is a trick question. You’re not interested if they’re the most in demand architect on the block or how popular they are. The main purpose of this question is to know how busy they are. Are they going to put you on the priority list or are you in the end of the queue?

3) How much is your charging fee?

It is best to be blunt on this part before you sign a contract with them. Find out their fee structure and payment schedules. Curbed.com also suggests that you must “be open about your budget.” Both parties must be transparent and have a clear understanding on this matter to avoid disputes.

4) Is my house design possible?

The truth hurts but you should lay this question early on the table. This is some kind of “expectation vs. reality” where you tell your potential architect who is based in the Philippines what should your dream house would look like. And in turn, they can give you insights and suggestions about your design, and how to improve it.

5) Do you know a reputable general contractor?

Architects and contractors work hand in hand. According to houselogic.com, “good architects can recommend reliable general contractors in your area and help you evaluate portfolios and bids.” This is a measuring stick as well to find out how eager they are to lend you a hand and not just designing your house that you’re planning to build in the Philippines.