Then if the numbers look good and you are prequalified, get the architect to draw the plans and you are on your way.

Some of the larger brokerages in town I have spoken with have in an house development firm, PM firms for appartments, facility management services, architects.

Get rid of the bad ones and keep adding good ones.SurveyorsLawyersRealtorsContractorsElectriciansPlumbersExcavatorsGlassPlanning/ZoningPlumbingHVACBanks/financingAppraisersEngineering or Architects and firms.Planning get to know the zoning map, zoning rules, and Proposed zoning. 

One of the big hurdles was getting the architects to make it feel more home like than commercial.  

As a German Architect I moved a few years ago to Long Island New York and although coming from a Real Estate Family, there are many things I have to relearn and will gladly do so.

Why not just have the architect survey the entire job instead of paying a 3rd Party Software company to do it?

It is not unheard of for an Architect/Engineer to have to make existing conditions drawings done prior to design occurring.

I work in Manhattan as an architect and work amongst developers/real estate pros and “the money” daily.

Do what @Mike McCarthy has suggested about having a pro pull the permit.I have been in the position of being shut down, had a code inspection called, required to hire an architect.

I am looking to build a house on a lot that I just picked up that currently has a modular home that is past its prime, I am looking for an Architect/Engineer in or around the 98528, 98546 or 98584.