I to am a registered architect by trade and I've seen some very damaged slabs here in Houston that would require 20k+ to repair and some that would just require 4k for pressed piers in the corner of the foundation.  

They usually place the architect's rendering and the floor plan on there to generate interest.

If you need an architect I am very investor friendly and have completed projects in Fair Lawn and near by Glen Ridge.

It feels that all the Architects and Contractors that I spoke with had different ways to tackle this project and I am worried that this could land me in a open-ended and very costly project.   

Not sure what the price point, but maybe @Robert Withers from M1 Capital can help point you in the right direction.Also are you an architect for your own firm?

Find a local architect in the area and get his/ her advice.

We have met with an architect to discuss $/sf.

This would require Architects and possibly some entitlement work.2) is to go through any other entitlements.  

They are the ones that architects look at when we think about or talk prefab.http://methodhomes.net/https://www.bluhomes.com/homes-landingYou might also want to look into doing a custom built home.

I would engage an architect to give you some ideas for facade and landscaping improvements.I'm currently in the process of bringing a B- property up to an A.