Best Way for Start-Up Architect to Connect with Homeowners Looking to Build/Remodel

[Anonymous]

Both myself and DH are architects. We both are employed at our respective well-known commercial firms in DC- but we are looking to start up our own residential firm. We have each done some small residential projects in the past- and have come to realize after more than 15 years in the commercial industry that we love to help others- especially families - through the process of telling their story through design of their own home. We know we will need to start slowly, build up work, and then make the leap... but I am trying to figure out the best way to connect with homeowners. I figured I would ask here (and I'm asking some other networking sources as well)... but how do most of you find your architect and/or designer? Do you gather recommendations from neighbors? From your realtor? Would you hire someone like myself who may be just beginning their practice but would be eager and enthusiastic?

[Anonymous]

I just bought my first house. We aren't looking to remodel, but I would definitely listen to recommendations from my realtor if I was planning on it. Also I would need to have recommendations- either online reviews or word of mouth- from the projects you've worked on previously.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I just bought my first house. We aren't looking to remodel, but I would definitely listen to recommendations from my realtor if I was planning on it. Also I would need to have recommendations- either online reviews or word of mouth- from the projects you've worked on previously.

And yes, I would be interested in working with someone less experienced but eager especially if I thought that you would spend a little more time with me, etc, to compensate for "new"ness if that makes sense.

[Anonymous]

This sounds very hokey, but put together a few photos of your residential projects, one testimonial and a little about your background and what you want to do. Take this one page sheet to open houses in areas where you might want to do business and ask the agent if you can leave it there. People will grab the sheets when they take the brochure or financial info.

There is also a very inexpensive flyer service which delivers paper flyers to real estate agents. Do a mailer to them. The email flyers are a little more complicated, because you really have to advertise a house.

We need good architects to figure out how to work with old houses. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

I don't understand how you can have worked as a commercial architect and not know how to find clients for yourself. If I need an architect then I'm going to find you. I would not be interested in you finding me. Whenever a realtor suggests that she knows someone who can help me I think kickback. If you want clients then go on Houzz and look at the glossy profiles of local architects in your area.

[Anonymous]

- Have a good website with lots of good photos. Work with a web designer and consultant so your website comes up in Google when someone searches for key works you designate.

- Donate a couple hours consultation to private school silent auctions. Will get your name out there and may turn into a bigger project.

- Pair with a builder (seems like in DC that's the best way to do it, though I guess you already did that)

[Anonymous]

I have a house that I love but that needs a lot of work. The primary way I have researched architects is the neighborhood list serve. The people you find through this route tend to be more experienced and established, especially since the more established architects will have more recommendations on the list serve.

When you are new and competing against more established professionals, I think it helps to have some compelling reason for people to pick you over others. Perhaps a niche or specialty, or like PP suggested extra hand-holding, or a bargain price.* The one thing that would make me hesitate at hiring someone with your background is that I would wonder if your experience in commercial architecture would translate to designing a home to function well for a family. I would want to ask you about your experience with designing for families and hear your ideas.

*If you decide to offer a bargain rate initially and can work in close-in Virginia, do tell.

[Anonymous]

Market to interior designers, realtors, and small builders (think the ones that do small renovations).

[Anonymous]

Haha I see it doesn't take long for the opportunist to come out of the woodwork. If you think giving away your work will lead to more work then you are very green. One poster wants you spend money on a website (I'm sure they can help you with that for a fee) and the other wants you to underprice your work for her advantage. Good luck.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Haha I see it doesn't take long for the opportunist to come out of the woodwork. If you think giving away your work will lead to more work then you are very green. One poster wants you spend money on a website (I'm sure they can help you with that for a fee) and the other wants you to underprice your work for her advantage. Good luck.

I"m not those PPs, but having a good website seems like a good suggestion. I see no indication that was someone trying to sell such services.

[Anonymous]

I'm a residential architect and I get most of my clients through word of mouth. A good website is also important and you should post the residential projects you've already done on houzz. You'll also find that there is a network of small residential firms and home - office based residential architects who often help eachother so getting involved in the CRAN group through your local AIA chapter is also very helpful. Getting involved in the community where you plan to establish your business is also a great way to meet builders, real estate agents etc. Start with your own neighborhood, get on your HOA board, design review board, etc.

I would also not quit both of your jobs at the same time. Starting a new firm can be slow going as you build up a client base and someone has to bring home the health insurance.