Is consultation to be prioritized over Istikhara, or is it permissible to inquire about something before performing Istikhara concerning it, and then perform Istikhara thereafter?

It is recommended for a Muslim, when intending to undertake a matter in which the right course of action is unclear, to first consult those with experience and good counsel, as Allah Almighty says: {and consult them in the matter}. Then, once the beneficial course becomes clear to him, he should seek Allah’s guidance (istikhara) concerning it, because consultation provides greater reassurance than relying solely on one's own judgment. Therefore, asking about something before performing istikhara is permissible, indeed, it is recommended.