You'll be ahead of the game by skipping an architect and going straight to a self storage conversion kit manufacturer like Trachte or Janus. 

Also, especially with any friends / family borrowing, making good on the original agreement builds trust / confidence / reputation / etc.

I was looking for recommendations on reputable Title Companies to use in my area (West Chester, PA) who have experience with Assignments and Double Closings.

I haven't worked with them but Crowne Property Management has a good reputation amongst the REI community in north NJ. 

Hi @Sara Taslitt - As others have said, you'll want to hire a reputable inspector to perform a thorough inspection of the older home. 

Other factor is about possible vacancy situation due to reputation of the town. 

The maximum number of financed properties that are permitted is based on the underwriting method, as described later in this topic.The financed property limitapplies to the number of one- to four-unit residential properties where the borrower is personally obligated on the mortgage(s), even if the monthly housing expense is excluded from the borrower’s DTI in accordance with B3-6-05, Monthly Debt Obligations (01/30/2018);applies to the total number of properties financed, not to the number of mortgages on the property or the number of mortgages sold to Fannie Mae;includes the borrower’s principal residence if it is financed; andis cumulative for all borrowers (though jointly financed properties are only counted once).The following property types are not subject to these limitations, even if the borrower is personally obligated on a mortgage on the property:commercial real estate,multifamily property consisting of more than four units,ownership in a timeshare,ownership of a vacant lot (residential or commercial), orownership of a manufactured home on a leasehold estate not titled as real property (chattel lien on the home).Examples — Counting Financed PropertiesThe borrower is personally obligated on mortgages securing two investment properties and the co-borrower is personally obligated on mortgages securing three other investment properties, and they are jointly obligated on their principal residence mortgage.

Would like referrals for contractors that BP members have used in the Austin area.  I have a few, but always open to see who else is out there that is highly recommended.  Thank you!  

I think the best way would be to find whoever has the best reputation on town Facebook pages from people who have had work done.

If this is a one off flip it may be different but if you plan on creating a long term business doing that your reputation could take a big hit justified or not.With court there is the time you spend on filings,attorneys,preparing for a case, going to court,etc.