Those of you who are new to real estate development business, need to understand what each Design professional contributes to development team and specific services they are capable of delivering for you.

Knowing what they do for you ... what you are paying for is vital.

This is part of a series of articles I am writing for you to explain what each profession does in some detail.

The Architect

If any of us were asked what an architect does, most of us would reply, "designs buildings," and you'd be correct. But if you were then asked, what else do they do, most likly you be struggling to give an answer.

An overview description would be:

Architect is trained to interpret and develop your ideas of building you want to create and transform them into reality.

Whether you are developing a residential building for your own use, may I make a plea, that you don't compare 'unique' services an architect provides for you, with that of a Draftsman. The difference is like comparing chalk to cheese.

In some countries, draftsmen have set themselves up in business to provide residential designs at a cut price set fee. Without a shadow of doubt fee will be lower than an architects fee.

But so is what is provided for fee. An architect provides you with a "unique" design solution to your personal needs. A draftsman draws work that others have designed.

And that is just beginning of difference between these two.

With a draftsman you get a set of plans and maybe a specification - that's it. Now let's find out what an architect does for you.

A building project can be a complex process for beginner and demands a constant monitoring of cost, time and quality.

To achieve this, architect, is usually co-ordinator of all design consultants and achieves a successful project completion through good communication between all parties including client and builder.

An Architect provides a range of services on basis of a Fee Scale that is usually established by Institute of Architects of country in which they work.

An architect can advise you on following aspects of building:

. Designing and planning . Selecting a site . Undertaking feasibility studies . Managing building budget . Selecting and managing project team . Designing interior . Landscaping surrounds . Maintaining building

An Architect can save you money because: . They have an in-depth knowledge of building process and most economical, efficient to achieve what you want.

. They can plan and manage a project from start to finish helping to avoid costly mistakes.

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Step 1: Goals

Without clearly defined goals, measured over a specific time frame, you will achieve very little. When setting your goals consider your income, lifestyle and requirements. First aim to improve your last years’ income by a specific amount, or, if you are new to sales, aim to achieve as close to top sales person in your team as you can.

Step 2: Prospecting

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Put a system in place to regularly find new customers from referrals, past customers etc.

Build up your database of loyal customers that you can sell time after time.

Step 3: Qualifying