Before starting your home architecture project, you need to find an architect for the job. It’s very easy to find architects–almost too easy in fact. A homeowner can create a list of potential home architects very quickly. The real trick when looking for architects is slowing down and taking the time to find the right one for your home architecture project.

Check Architect Association Websites

Architect association websites and databases are the fastest ways to find architects in your area. Almost every architect association has a list of architects that can be searched by location, name or type of home architecture project.

One of the most respected architect associations is the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The AIA includes a member database on its website, and membership in this architect association requires architects to work within the AIA’s code of ethics.

Word of Mouth and Home Architecture

Like other home improvement professionals, a home architect’s reputation relies on word of mouth. Ask friends, relatives and coworkers if they have ever completed home architecture projects. If so, where did they find an architect?

If you have an opportunity to tour the house and see the results of the architect’s work, do so. Seeing the home architecture results firsthand allows you to judge if the home architect is a good fit for your project. You’ll also want to ask the following questions:

• Did the home architect provide clients with the results they wanted
• Was the home architect easy to work with?
• Were there any problems? If so, how were they resolved?

Members of the local construction industry may also be able to help you find an architect. As the people who make home architecture designs into reality, builders have an insider’s knowledge of an architect’s strengths and weaknesses.

One caution on asking for home architect recommendations from construction specialists. It’s always possible that construction specialists may recommend home architects who provide them with work–a clear conflict of interest.

Find Architects Locally

Your local phone book may provide a list of local home architects, although you only find contact information in these sources and no information on the architects’ abilities. You can also check your local Chamber of Commerce for possible home architecture specialists.

No matter how you find an architect, it’s important to check each candidate’s qualifications and credentials carefully. Some architects simply are not interested in home architecture, so ask questions to evaluate the candidate’s enthusiasm for your project. It may take up to two months to find architects, conduct interviews and make your final decision. Don’t rush: It’s time well spent.