If you're planning to build a truly custom home, you'll need an architect. Consider these tips to help you choose the right professional and get the most out of the relationship.

• Review some plans from the architect's portfolio. Make sure that he or she has designed some homes that are similar in style to what you want.
• Assert yourself at all times in the relationship - it's your house, so make sure it turns out the way you want.
• Architects are not mind readers. If you really want your custom home to be right for your family, you'll need to have a good idea of what you want going in.
• Keep costs in mind throughout the design process. Insist that the architect discuss the cost differentials of various options with you as the plans are designed.

Your architect can bill you in one of two ways - either a total price for the project or an hourly charge for all work done (typically $40 to $100 per hour).