Do I hire an architect?

You can also consult with professionals in the field, such as architects, builders, or contractors, and learn from their expertise.In addition to formal education, finding a mentor can be a great way to gain practical experience and insights into the construction industry.

Please let me know what your experience with hiring an architect or draftsman.  

We recently did an extensive renovation on it to create an Airbnb unit within it (more on that later) and during it I spent a lot of time in the planning office with our architect so I have a bit of insight.

Or if you want a solid number you will have to pay and architect to draft up some plans for what you want then send those out for bids.

I haven't fully gone through the permitting process myself but in the past I was looking for architects, not lawyers, to draw plans and get town approval, they aren't cheap.

Account ClosedIf this were mine, I'd talk to 2 or 3 local Architects and have him/her come visit it and describe a vision for it at different price points.I don't know what it's neighborhood is like but properly upgrading the terraced landscaping seems like it would really make an impression.If it's in a tough neighborhood I wouldn't do that though.Good Luck! 

I hired an architect for the design. 

.$6k architect fee, $18k permit, $12k solar, $200k construction, $5k school fee, $8k concrete pour around the house once done. i don't know lenders that'll loan on it but for me I just did a cash out refi.

This should have been completed by your architect/draftsman.