I started HOMETEC in August, 1987. I knew that I could
have a successful architectural practice if I focused on
a market niche abandoned by traditional architects. This
market niche is homeowner projects - additions, remodels
and new homes. Most architects today are more interested
in doing larger, high profile commercial projects. Those
projects command much higher fees and are much more involved
and time-consuming than residential projects would be.
Of course, one of the reasons for my success in this market
is that I do not charge the typical architectural fees of
10-15% of construction costs. My fees have never exceeded
5% and on most medium-size projects, range from 3% to 4%
of construction costs, sometimes as low as 2%. In the last
fifteen years, HOMETEC has averaged approximately 80 projects
per year. This is advantageous in that we have become extremely
familiar with each of the cities in Santa Clara County and
their particular requirements for project submittals. This
experience translates into reduced problems for our clients
when it comes time to submit their projects. Also, the planners
and building inspectors have come to recognize HOMETEC and
appreciate the quality of work put into our drawings.
-Richard A. Hartman, AIA, Principal
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