whats the benefits of doing it the right way??

So i am about 5k on architect fees simply trying to convert my alcove studio to a 1 bedroom and reconfigure a couple closets. My friend did the same thing in his coop without any permits or anything and just told the board hes updating the kitchen cabinets. Now that i am 5k in and dont even have permits yet, just curious is there any benefit of doing this the legal way?? its taken me about 4 months and 5k and im still trying to get this thing approved. Basically, i paid an architect about 3k and paying the building architect 250/ per hour to review and we are on the 4th review as he keeps coming up with random questions he says weren't included in the previous review. My full renovation is only estimated at 15k, never thought Id be paying over 5k just to get it approved.