Architect, designer or contractor? how should i proceed

[Satha Palani]

Hi all,

i am a week away from closing on a three family in the Ironbound section of Newark. The units have not been updated since the early 70's and need a fair bit of work. I plan to live in one unit and rent the other 2 out. 

I would like to modernize the apartments, open concept living and dining, kitchen and bathroom upgrades etc. Also, the inspector recommended that an existing beam above the driveway be re-enforced. 

Any suggestion on how best to go about getting the work done? Should i get an architect to draw everything up before looking for contractors? Are there contractors out there who would be able to do everything in-house?

Really appreciate any and all suggestions. also if you have folks you can recommend, i would be very grateful.

thanks,

satha