Do you know any good builders?

I've been in business for almost six months and, so far, am refusing to participate in this recession. To mark the occasion I checked my accounts.

So far, I've earned 70% of my turnover from private one-off clients, people who own a house and need an extension or alteration. There are plenty of clients like that out there just now and, generally, I enjoy working with them. Its always a challenge for an Architect to get the balance of budget and expectation just right. Because I offer a variety of services and am flexible with my fees, people tell me they feel I provide value for money.

What about the other 30% though, where did that come from?

Private developers. Usually small builders who have a bit of cash and are investing in the property market while its cheap to do so. I love these guys. Most will know the construction industry inside out and they know that an Architect can add significant value to a project as well as keeping all the paperwork in order. They tend to pay promptly as well, no small matter if your a self employed Architect.

For the next six months, my challenge is to find more developers and small builders and reverse the 70-30 ratio.

If you know any good builders in Edinburgh, the Lothains, Fife or the Borders, let me know.