I need to pay an architect to draw plans before a contractor will touch it.

If you want an exact estimate the person you would want to contact is an Architect.

Selected my architect with one requirement being that they are self-certified with the city to keep review time under control.

As an Architect, I like to romanticize the project since this home is on the edge of downtown, at a main intersection which acts as a gateway for a lot of traffic to and from downtown from the neighboring township.

If you call enough architects and people actually active in using containers, there is one remark that you will hear repeatedly: "You're not going to save any money." 

Wanted to ask the fine community here if they mind sharing any great (and affordable) architects they've worked with for rehabs and/or new construction projects to create a set of plans.

I had someone pull the plans and it shows a vacant basement.I had to hire architects and the long and the short of it, many areas are zoned for certain types of housing, some for 1FR, others for 2FR.

You would essentially need a general contractor and architect to draw and esecute the plans for this unit, it's not just finishing it off like a cheaper renovation. 

I am interested in buying a plot/land from one of those burnt houses in Gatlinburg, TN which was affected by the recent wildfire.I am looking for good suggestions for Realtors, Architects and Builders who can help me with that process and any other word of caution or suggestions, will be highly appreciated.

I would head to an architect and see what they say first.