We're using high quality materials and hired a very creative architect.

Someone has paid an architect, talked to the city, has the permits, etc. 

I'm looking to do this at a high level initially and low to zero cost (don't want to spend a ton of money on an architect when I just need to assess feasibility). b) After the above is done, how can I best evaluate, using key financial indicators, etc. to make decisions.  

For example, Pennsylvania only allows you to use certain words ("architect") if you meet certain qualification.

Or, a good architect can work through this.  

I feel like I"m spinning my wheels a bit.I thought about hiring an RV architect. 

@Sharon Breeding if you have an architect, they can reference you.

Heck you are an architect teacher.

The IRS doesn't have any set qualifications or licenses required to do cost seg, but they assume cost seg is only done by individuals with knowledge of construction, construction techniques, design, estimation procedures and the tax code i.e. construction engineers or architects trained in cost seg.

You also need to look into the local cost of professionals - architect/designer, engineer if you intend to engage in larger projects.