Maybe others see something you don't, maybe people think there are structural issues that your appraiser/GC didn't pick up on (an architect could tell you if there's structural issues).

Listen to your Attorneys, stop work with him, do not pay him any more and higher a new contractor. document everything with pictures and notes before the new contractor starts work, even have the town Construction official and your Architect if you had one, come out and check over the work and write up a report of their findings. then proceed with the new contractor, fix what needs to be fixed of his work ( based on all your written reports you got ).

Start exploring whether you need to hire an architect firm/developer firm for this renovation project.

Can you make any recommendations on companies and architects?

I am hopeful to network with brokers, investors, architects, and anyone else who may be interested in hearing more about the early stages of my project.

You need to get it under contract with a long DD period, then start at the city, talk to architects get a site plan, etc.

As correctly noted, digging below that in philly you need underpinning, architects and engineers as required by code.

I'm expecting them to require detailed drawings so I am in the market for skilled and affordable draftsman/architect in the Chicagoland area.

He is a stamped architect 

Good Day BP Alum,Can anyone tell me what the average cost is for an architect to make some drawings for basement and attic layouts in Chicago...and if you''ve used someone can you message me a recommendation....thanks