Architecture

The $238,400 Lesson

August 29, 2025

"Price is what you pay. Value is what you get." -- Warren Buffet

Two neighbors. Identical lots. Identical project goals.

One hired a budget architect for $25K.

The other invested $40K in a design-led, performance-focused architect.

At first, the cheaper design fee felt like a win to the neighbor with the early grin.

Cost overruns

But the cracks—literal and financial—soon appeared.

Poor documentation led to $65,000 in construction overruns.

Next door? The better-designed home was built smoothly, on time and on budget.

The rental income.

The cheaper home earned $420/month less due to the awkward layout, poor light, and general lack of appeal.

Over 10 years, that was $50,400 lost.

The premium home? Snapped up by quality tenants, with glowing reviews.

Operating costs and comfort?

The cheap build leaked heat, fought the seasons, and cost $180/month more in power and maintenance—another $21,600 evaporate out a hole in the wall.

Next door? Warm, quiet, energy-efficient—and a genuine joy to live in.

Then came the sale.

Ten years on, both homes hit the market.

The cheaper design sold for $120,000 less than its twin. The neighbor who “saved” $15K on design fees was $238,400 worse off.

In summary…

Ironically, the cheaper architect was the most expensive.

When hiring an architect, you’re buying a future set of outcomes not always visible to the short term thinker. You will only see price—until you train yourself to see value.

‘Some people know the price of everything and the value of nothing’ — Oscar Wilde

Great design is seldom a cost.

It’s often smartest investment you’ll ever make.

Choose the architect, not the fee.

Are you a homeowner or landowner wondering “What can I build here?” or “Can I expand this house?”

 

That’s where we come in. Before anyone starts designing, we can help you get clarity.

By reviewing the property, the zoning regulations, and your goals, we can show you what’s realistically possible—saving time and avoiding costly surprises.

 

Use the link below to schedule a free Project Clarity Call. You’ll get expert insights from someone who truly knows the ropes. And you’ll walk away informed and ready to make decisions.

Request a Clarity Call

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