So this might sound a bit redundant, but it must be done. If you can plan before talking to an architect you can save some time and money on extra work.
We have spent many hours deciding best ways to orient the home, how big to have rooms, how to plan for energy efficiency, placement of utilities and recently we were able to relocate a garage and possibly save around $20,000 (hopefully). All because of a little planning ahead.
Having a basic layout, a list of what you want and do not want in your home. Ceiling heights, kitchens, living rooms, open layout, etc. I don’t know about you but if I have a notebook and some dividers I can keep my thoughts in order and the project as well. My notebook is pretty much with me wherever I go at this point. (Oh and a cup of coffee!!)