I resisted hiring an architect for many weeks, but the contractor kept imploring me to do so. Finally, I relented and hired an architect. My contractor was very relieved. I think the architect charged me about $2,000. I do recall it not being much relative to the cost of the addition, which was six figures. What she did was added a front porch, changed the direction of the new staircase and designed a large bay window on the back of the house. The design was simple but looked amazing. And when I compared it to what I drew up for my contractor, I felt like an idiot.
Had I not finally listened to my contractor and hired an architect, I would have been living in two ranch homes stacked on top of each other—simply hideous. And years later when I sold the house, I made a significant profit, which I can confidently say was because of my architect’s design. The house would have been livable, yes—and ugly. Hiring a professional is usually worth the expense in ways that may pleasantly surprise you.
Nicholas W. Stuller is the author of The Truth Shall Set Your Wallet Free: Secrets to Finding the Perfect Financial Advisor.