9 Mistakes People Make When Hiring a Designer

There is a definite distinction between a trained professional interior designer and someone with a knack for decorating. Here are some mistakes that people make when looking for an interior designer.

1) Not Taking A Business Approach in Your Decision

Make sure you know with whom you are doing business. Research several interior designers before hiring someone. Get a list of “Certified Interior Designers” in your area by visiting CCIDC.org.

2) Not Being Clear About Your Expectations

Know what you would like to accomplish ahead of time. Try to establish an investment amount that you are comfortable spending.

3) Not Checking Their Qualifications

Ask them if they are a CID. This stands for Certified Interior Designer and is the only title recognized under California state law. Ask how long they’ve been practicing. Do they have an interior designer education? What interior design related examinations have they taken and passed?

4) Not Checking Their Work

Call for references. Look at their recent work. Ask how long their similar projects might have taken and why? Ask if their projects come in on budget.

5) Not Asking for a Proper Agreement or Contract

Ask them to prepare a letter of agreement. If you have an attorney, run it by them. It is always better to understand ahead of time what you are agreeing to. Make sure the agreement spells out the scope of work and a payment schedule is included. Ask about their insurance coverage for anything you plan to purchase from them. And make sure there is a dispute resolution clause as well.

6) Not Establishing a Budget

There is nothing worse than getting started on a remodeling project and running out of money part way through. Ask for a preliminary budget to be created before you begin. It is better not to be surprised where your money is concerned!

7) Being Unprepared for the Unexpected

When beginning a new project, understand that sometimes things will not go the way everyone expects. Items may take longer than expected to arrive, or simply be unavailable. Be prepared to compromise to keep things moving along. Know that the unexpected may cost more and take longer due to unavoidable circumstances. Be prepared to spend as much as 10-20% more than you originally plan on just in case. Listen to you design professional who has experience and can guide you through the process.

8) Being Unaware of The Trauma of Remodeling

Expect things to get stressful and also dusty! If you need to move out temporarily, make plans ahead of time to do so. Some people set up makeshift kitchens or home offices in other parts of the home to avoid the trauma.

9) Not Listening to The Professional

You hired your designer so listen to them. Don’t let other family members or friends give you advice. It will confuse the issue and may end up undermining your designer’s work.