Best practices for paying architects

[Olya Sorokina]

Hi all,

I was wondering how architects get paid precisely? Everything upfront? First half upfront before they start working, 2nd half after most work is done but before submitting for permits or 2nd half after permits are issued? Everything at the end of the permit process? Something else?

What is the working standard/best practice that is safe for an investor and fair for all parties?