The architect is the one building professional who has the training and experience to guide homeowners through the entire building process. An architect serves as the owner's agent. As head of a team of specialist (engineers, landscape architects, contractors, etc.), an architect's first obligation is to look out for the homeowner's interest. Architects drawings and construction documents tell the contractor precisely what to build and set down exact requirements. They help homeowners get bids for construction based on those same requirements. And, architects follow the contractor's work to make sure there are no surprises, making sure the homeowner gets what they want.