Purpose of this phase: Discover what your property allows before dreaming too big.

Architect does: Research zoning, setbacks, slope, flood zones, and utilities; contacts the city to confirm buildable limits.

Homeowner can do:

✅ Gather survey, title report, and any HOA / CC&R documents.
✅ Walk the property — note sun path, drainage, and privacy.
✅ List top 3 questions about the land or city rules.
✅ Send all files to your architect before the first design meeting.

Speed tip: The faster you provide documents; the sooner your architect can start sketches.

Purpose of this phase: Translate how you live into architectural goals.
Architect does: Turns your wish list into workable square footage, levels, and spatial flow within site limits.

Homeowner can do:
✅ Write a short “day in the life” — how you use spaces morning to night.
✅ List must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers.
✅ Collect 5–10 photos that capture the feeling you want, not just style.
✅ Note dislikes from previous homes (dark kitchen, no mudroom, etc.).

Speed tip: Clear priorities prevent costly redraws and design stalls.

Purpose of this phase: Decide early how efficient and healthy your home will be.
Architect does: Studies heating, cooling, insulation, solar, and renewable options; coordinates consultants if needed.

Homeowner can do:
✅ Choose 2–3 performance goals — comfort, savings, or low carbon.
✅ Research rebates or energy credits (heat pumps, solar, insulation).
✅ Ask your architect which upgrades give the best lifetime return.
✅ Decide if certification (Built Green, ENERGY STAR) matters to you.

Speed tip: Stating your sustainability goals now avoids redesigns later when systems are already drawn.

Purpose of this phase: Match vision and finances before committing to drawings.
Architect does: Works with contractor to estimate cost / sq ft and identify price drivers.

Homeowner can do:
✅ Set your total investment range and a 10–15 % contingency.
✅ Prioritize where to invest (structure vs finishes).
✅ Approve cost-saving ideas quickly after review.
✅ Ask for a running estimate after each design change.

Speed tip: Fast feedback on budget decisions keeps design momentum and avoids expensive pauses.

Purpose of this phase: Confirm every rule and risk before moving forward.
Architect does: Contacts planning, public works, and fire departments; compiles a Due Diligence Report with confirmed setbacks, height, stormwater, and environmental notes.

Homeowner can do:
✅ Attend the wrap-up Zoom with your architect and builder.
✅ Review the Due Diligence Report — highlight any unclear items.
✅ Sign off to move into Pre-Application once comfortable with scope and cost.
✅ Begin collecting inspiration folders for concept design.

Speed tip: Timely review of the report lets your team jump straight into Pre-Application instead of waiting weeks.

Due Diligence is the difference between designing with confidence and building on guesswork.

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