Using an Architect Instead of a General Contractor

Most people don't know this, but an architect isis, to keep the job going and stay on schedule.
allowed to perform the same tasks as a generalIf you hired a general contractor, instead of an
contractor. They can actually replace the generalarchitect, the general contractor could push the
contractors in most states. I would imagine that mostarchitect, for plan changes and provide solutions to
architects are qualified to perform this task andyour problems on time and without excuses.
would do an excellent job at it.If the architect is the general contractor, guess what
With that said, I would like to point something outhappens. You guessed it, they will drag certain
and this affects general contractors and architects.changes that require their attention, for weeks,
Nothing can replace experience and if you have anbecause no one is placing demands on them to
experienced architect who has done plenty ofperform.
general contracting, and has previous clients that areThis happens a lot in the construction business. If
happy with his or her completed projects, I wouldyou're thinking about using an architect to replace a
recommend using the architect.general contractor, make sure that your architect
I wouldn't recommend having a general contractorunderstands that you need to stay on schedule and
perform the architect's task and design your house,complete the building on time and you will not accept
but I would agree that most architects areanything less.
extremely capable and should be able to perform theIf your architect refuses or seems wishy-washy, find
tasks that are involved by most general contractors.someone else who is qualified to keep the job on
Here's the biggest problem that I have as aschedule or you could find yourself with extensive
contractor, working under architects who have takenconstruction time delays and these delays cost you
the general contract for a construction project. Mostmoney, most of the time, not the architect.
of them don't seem to understand how important it