@Hunter Harms On average Design-Build tends to be more affordable than the separate Architect-Builder, but there are exceptions to everything. Finding someone that aligns with your interests isn't about how the firm is setup, but rather about the work ethic and performance. You want to be able to see, and if possible, tour projects they've recently worked on so you can see if their quality and value are in alignment with what you're looking for.
Again, this is very generalized and somewhat stereotyping, but typically the Architect is the designer when it comes to a pleasing aesthetic, quality materials and functional design. The GC is responsible for overseeing the construction of the project and managing everything from the budget and schedule to the subcontractors on site. Subs are always hired separately, they are the specialty guys like electricians, plumbers, drywallers, painters, etc...
There are 2 main beliefs people have for hiring the Architect team separate from the GC team. They are usually that they believe they get a better design from an Architectural firm because Design-Build firms are viewed more as the blue collar designer that gets it done. As I mentioned, I've worked for different firms in both styles and the work is just as good or just as terrible from both. It has nothing to do with the setup. The second reason is people believe they get better pricing having the separate companies because they can get multiple bids for construction, but the cost of construction is what it is and they don't account for the cost of bringing the construction team up to speed and what they may have missed in their bid. Really just do some research and see what people say on both types of construction.
