When should getting an architect envolved be a "no brainer"?

Contractors I have contacted have usually been reluctant to give estimates unless I have the architect plans in hand, which I can understand.

This can be worked around sometimes.Plat restrictionsCC&Rs - HOA restrictionsSetbacksTree ordinances - impacts your foundation design and footprintGrade or slope of the lotWater retention/runoffA good architect that has designed houses in your area should also know all of the issues that you will need to overcome to get a permit because they have fought that fight in the permit office where you are building.After you have found a good place to build and the exit prices are high enough to get the margin you desire after your land and construction costs, build a detailed budget.

Hi all, I`m excited too help other Real Estate professionals and gain knowledge as an architect in residencial renovation projects. 

Is it customary for an architect to have a book of contractors that they refer to clients when you engage in the architects services?  

I use to own a commercial building with yellow brick and I had an architect design the exterior for a restaurant.

A little background about me: I work in a real estate development company as a Design & Construction Manager keeping an eye on Architects/Engineers and Contractors but I don't really work on the front end with Acquisitions, Proformas, etc. so investing is generally new to me but I learn quick :)So, my journey begins...Oct (week 3) - I began spending hours a days reading and researching about single family home rental investments and Turnkey investment properties around the nation.

Architects. 

I am looking for a good construction company with architect services to handle the entire project. 

@Dan Miklosz, I'm an Architect based out of Chicago and I am actively working on (2) projects that are exactly as you have described.