Last time I checked with my architect, the construction cost in Portland metro including labor and materials, architecture fee and permits costs about $150 to $250 per sq ft depends on the finishing.

I have had mixed responses on whether i could go the Architect > contractor route or if i should just get a contractor?

There is often the project architect's or structural engineer's sign on the fence as well, and you can call them up and ask how it is working with the contractor.If you are just starting to develop your property, you can start with the architect or engineer and they can recommend contractors they've worked with before and had a great experience with. 

@Daniel Miller you don't have to get an architect, we used a draftsman for an addition, much cheaper. 

So, I was considering putting the closet in the hallway, to avoid making the room any smaller, but only if it doesn’t obstruct the legality of the bedroom and my ability to market it as one.I've always assumed a bedroom needed a window & closet inside, but my architect told me there is no legal definition.

I just applied for the permits and have plans recently drawn by architect.

So, I'll spend maybe 10k in permits and architects, maybe 40k on utility connections, another maybe 50k on the actual prefab components (if I'm reading the only option I've found in cal precut) and another 50k on finishing and on-demand labor (with me doing things I can do to help keep costs down).First, please do lay in to me about how foolish this sounds.

1) Hire an architect, then shop the plans around for quotes from GCs (which sounds like the best idea to me)2) Get quotes and designs from design/build contractors3)  ?

After another year of attempting to raise money, negotiating with the owners, speaking with engineers, architects, industry specific professionals, and revising my plans, I feel as if the purchase is within touching distance - yet still so far away and could use some assistance from more experienced investors.Basics: The track needs some updating as do the grounds and facilities.

Because I was on a timeline for the refinance, the BC suggested I pay extra to "rush" the architects plans so it can be submitted to dept of plans & permitting.