The Designers Show by Chief Experts

Make More Money with Chief Architect - Designers Show #173

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Welcome to the "Designers Show" by Chief Experts, where design isn't just an art—it's a profit center!

Most residential designers, architects, and contractors aren’t underpaid because of a lack of skill—they’re underpaid because of how they structure and sell their services.

In this episode, Dan Baumann, John Schrader, Rene Rabbitt, Robin Fisher, and Kevin Transue break down how to turn Chief Architect into a true business tool—not just drafting software. The discussion focuses on increasing profit by shifting when and how design decisions are made, how services are packaged, and how clients are guided through the process.

What You’ll Learn
  • Why selling “plans” limits your income potential
  • How to restructure your workflow to get paid earlier
  • The role of Chief Architect in real-time client decision-making
  • How to reduce revisions and protect your margins
  • Why most designers struggle to charge what they’re worth
  • How to position yourself as a problem-solver, not a drafter
    • Key Topics Covered
    • The difference between drafting and decision-making value
    • Front-loading design decisions to increase profitability
    • Using live modeling to guide clients and close faster
    • Structuring paid design sessions
    • Eliminating open-ended revisions
    • Packaging services for clarity and higher pricing
      • Expanded Revenue Opportunities with Chief Architect

      This episode highlights that income doesn’t come from just one service. Key categories include:

      • Measuring and as-built services
      • Concept design packages
      • 3D visualization and renderings
      • Product and finish selections
      • Cabinet and interior layouts
      • Construction drawings and permit sets
      • Site planning and terrain modeling
      • Remodeling strategy and phasing plans
      • Sales and presentation packages
      • Estimating and material takeoffs
      • Template and workflow setup
      • Training and coaching
      • Outsourced drafting support
      • Interior design documentation
      • Real estate feasibility studies
      • Light commercial layouts
      • Outdoor living design
      • Plan rescue and file cleanup
      • Specialty drawing packages
        • Pricing Insights

        The panel outlines practical pricing ranges and positioning strategies:

        • Entry-level drafting: $40–$65/hr
        • Competent Chief users: $75–$110/hr
        • Experienced designers: $110–$150/hr
        • Specialists/trainers: $150–$250/hr
        • High-level consulting: $200–$300+/hr

          • Key principle:
          Don’t price like a drafter. Price like a problem-solver.

          Key Takeaway

          The biggest shift is this:
          You make more money when you guide decisions early in paid sessions—not when you react to revisions later.

          Resources & Links
          • Chief Architect Software
          • Chief Experts Training & Coaching
          • Workflow and pricing frameworks discussed in this episode
            • Upcoming Event

            Chief Architect Live Training – Denver (May 15–18)

            • Small group, hands-on environment
            • Direct access to industry experts
            • Real workflow and pricing implementation
            • Personalized feedback on your business

              • Learn more and register:
              https://www.chiefexperts.com/chief-experts-live-training-denver-co-june-15-18-2026

               

               

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                About the Co-Hosts:

                • John Schrader

                • Kevin Transue

                • Robin Rigby Fisher

                • Rene Rabbit

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                  The Designers Show by Chief ExpertsBy Chief Experts Dan Baumann, John Schrader, Rene Rabbitt, Robin Fisher & Kevin Transue