An architect can help you clarify the goals of your project, thus saving much misdirected work. The architect can also do site studies, help you through the necessary planning and zoning approvals, survey existing facilities, help with project financing and budgets, even advise you on environmental considerations and documentation. This way, your contractor will be an efficient member of a cohesive team, building the precise project you and your architect have designed. In fact, the difference in price between competitive bids is often more than the entire architect's fee. And, remember, the architect you hire does not necessarily need to be local.
Most architects can and do work on distant projects with ease.
Find out which design firm created the buildings that you admire. There is simply no better way than choosing the architect who has designed your favorite homes. And owners are usually happy to give you the name of their architect and discuss their project - especially if they are satisfied with the outcome. Keep an open mind to new design ideas, but don't be afraid that you'll be stuck with something you don't like. Let the designer bring new ideas to the table.