Since you are new to this aspect of design and dont have a trusted relationship with an architect already I would not suggest picking one that doesnt have experience already.

I'm also pretty skilled at all areas of design (I have my BFA in fashion design, part of the draw of my current home for Air BNB is how it's decorated, and I worked as a graphic designer to pay part of my way through college).

Also, the interface is very awkward, and seems to date back to the '80's in terms of design.  

HOA's have a lot of potential to have problems so the more you learn the better.Poor construction is a common issue so what you see may be the result of design flaws.Poor management and not taking care of maintenance is another problem.

I've seen alot of designs on HGTV lately where they only use carpet in the bedrooms, hardwood in the family room and the rest in tile.

To quote directly from the MA relationship disclosure the definition of designated agency is "Only the real estate agent listed below represents the consumer named in the form.

I will sit on the phone for you for hours, send pictures of design mock-ups, go through an endless number of emails, make sure that the product is the one you want, make edits for a while without charging you hourly, and make sure you know how to do everything you want to.Making a web site should never be a churn-and-burn process, which I guarantee what the $250 designer does.

Seems like ALOT of design without design?

Hi Mark,I am more a generalist, as I like being involved in different phases and areas of design.

@Julia BlytheHi Julia,Many of these "Modern" designs have large glass areas and are "Artistically" Designed shape wise vs being a box.Finding an Architect who has done this type of design would probably be a good start.Good Luck!