Architect referals, now what?

[Maria Teo]

Hi BP folks. I am remodeling a unit - adding a bathroom, laundry unit, and updating kitchen. My PM suggested an architect, rather than a home designer or draftsman to draw the plans. He referred a couple options but he hasn’t personally worked with either. His usual architect isn’t taking new projects.

How do I determine which architect is the best fit? What questions should I ask when I first call? (Project approach, pay schedule, turnaround time, example of previous projects? Neither has a website I can look up for portfolios.

Thanks for your help.