Hello

I have been working in the architecture field for 15 or so years and have been licensed / registered in NY for the past 5 years and I think its time to try and start my own firm. I have a few random questions I could use an opinion on:

Work portfolio. Even though I have been working on “side jobs” for the last 4 years or so, every thing I would want to include in a portfolio to show perspective clients, and include in advertising was done under another architect. I realize there will have to be some sort of mention of the architect of record. Any advice on how to handle this would be appreciated.

How to get clients? An add in the phonebook only gets you so far.

Consulting engineers; where/how to find a good one for civil and structural? (I do most of my own structural calculations but draw the line at composite concrete)

How to finance? I hear one should have at least 6 months worth stashed away, I am adopting a 2nd child and adoption is expensive (two adoptions is about the same as a year of my current salary). So there is no money put away. Advice on loans and grants would be great.

Projects lined up. I have a proposal out for a good size (in my book) commercial project. How much work should be line up ahead of time?

Hiring help. Probably cant get someone on full time but I will need some help getting the contract dos’s out.

Thanks