Building first SF house on spec. How to choose a design?

[James Harris]

I'm getting my builder's license in Michigan soon, and I'm wondering where builders go to choose house plans. I've googled a bit, but I don't know how to narrow down the selection besides staying within building codes for minimum square footage. Should I start shopping around for a local architect? It seems like comps will only get me so far. I'm looking to build in SE or SW Michigan.