For renovations, it's usually best to find a home first then have the designer come and see its potentials. But you could always get a designer on board first if you like their styles and want their design touches on your project.

Agreed but we do advise clients often (once we know their style) on home that might be suitable with most economical reno budgets. A good designer might see what the client doesn't on a house when previewing. Over the years many of our clients have called to assist them with the Real Estate purchase process.

Agree with both comments above, noting that which applies depends in part on what you are aiming to do with your reno. Do you plan to resell and want to select based on the value design can bring with less hard costs? Or, are you planning to stay in the home and feel competent to project potential from you a real estate agent presents to you?

If you do use a designer as part of your selection process, be sure that you and the designer have very clear boundaries. Good luck!