I'm a data architect at a major insurance company. 

In Austin, we have a decent variety of industries for the size of the city: lots of tech, creative class jobs (small businesses like restaurants, designers, architects, video production, gaming...), city and state government (Austin is the capital of Texas), nationally recognized entrepreneurialism and incubators, education (UT + other smaller, but respected colleges), and others that I'm sure I'm missing.Combine these job opportunities with a fairly business-friendly state, a city that people want to live in, good jobs that allow people to relocate, and this has created several years of insane growth.

Simultaneously building a brain trust consisting of civil Engineer / architect / initial sweet equity partners/ ?

He's even set up free consultations with architects and structural engineers before I've submitted offers so I can know if what I'm planning is even possible.Message me if you'd like his name.

Our architect gave us a not to exceed quote of $6,500 and to date we've gone beyond that.

If the lot is zoned for a multiplex then your next ste would be work with an architect familiar with this type of designing this building.  

That is why hiring a good Architect (full disclosure, I'm an Architect) with detailed plans is the best way to go.

Architect or Engineer is not the answer I am looking for.

-lot cost-closing cost-utilities cost to disconnect and reconnect-demo cost-permit cost-architect cost-build cost-realtor commission for resaleFor anyone who has done a deal like this before, what is the minimum profit you would need to make to consider this a deal?

GC's, roofers, architects etc. tend to give a quote for free, especially if there's a lucrative contract involved.