[chocolatelab]

My wife is one.

She works on hourly fee many times. Generally they are buying product from designer outlets. These designer outlets general sell to the designer for less then retail or they will cut the designer back a commission. These discounts can range from 15 to 40 percent.

If you get a decent designer you will probably still pay less than retail for the furniture and she will still make some money on the mark up. win win.

Behind the scenes a judi works her a** off. As much as it seems like all they do is furniture shop it is much much more.

As far as contractors at the house goes rules vary depending on location. In california an interior designer is not allowed to pay the " cabinet " contractor and in turn collect money from you for their services unless the designer actually holds a contracting license.

Often the " paint " or " cabinet " contractor will bill you directly and pay the designer a fee for the referral.

Interview a few different ones. Once you make your decision give him or her a budget and then get out of the way and give them the ability to make decisions so they can get their woek done.

Have fun.