I wouldn't work with anyone who didn't at least graduate from Architectural school. Or, in lieu, someone who spent at least 10 years in construction real world sunburned neck and nail bags, progressing to site supervisor. Preferably both education and experience combined.

If you aren't an architect, you have to overcompensate in some other way that shows that you have mastered some real world skills. Playing with software is the absolute last thing on the list from anyone. Most builders would rather master SketchUp themselves than deal with a software world expert with no real world experience.

Any others? I would love to see what anyone else thinks besides Sophie. I have watched a ton of people design homes who don't even know how to get a project sign and sealed by an architect or engineer. I am better than that I can assure you and I am knowledgeable in all aspects of performing a building designers job. My visuals are a way to visualize a project before it is built and help out with the scope of the projects not represent construction techniques.

(And thanks for the comment Sophie I am very thankful to get any feedback negative or positive in this manner. I have worked very hard to get to where I am now and I have won the approval of other building designers as well as an engineer ( who is waiting for me to get a project) and hopefully I will be able to show what I can do here and win approvals as well. The scope of my knowledge whether it is a framed home or a masonry will win the day I am sure of it.)