Guidelines for Hiring Professionals

Start your search with referrals from colleagues, family members and friends. Even if you accept a referral, be prepared to do some leg work to make sure the professional meets your needs and is in good professional standing.

Basic questions to consider when hiring professionals include:

• How long has s/he been in business?
  
• Does s/he have the required license(s) to practice in Illinois? The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation’s Division of Professional Regulation (DFPR) governs the licensing requirements and disciplinary process for the majority of professions relevant to finding spaces. For more information, visit DFPR’s Website, or contact 217-785-0800.
• Does s/he have experience working with artists, nonprofits, theatres, etc.?
  
• Which services does he/she provide?
  
• What can you expect for your fee?
  
• How will they handle conflicts of interest?
  
• What type of insurance does s/he carry (if applicable)?
  
• If you require a specialized service (for example, an accountant who specializes in nonprofits, or an architect who specializes in designing commercial conversions to residential spaces), make sure the professional's past clients had needs similar to your own.
  

There are good and bad professionals in every field. Be vigilant in your search process so that you find trustworthy, cooperative professionals. Real estate transactions involve substantial amounts of your money, so be your own advocate.