@Gino Barbaro Thanks for that shout out.  

You should have no problem converting that basement into a legal unit as long as all codes are met.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

However, that depends on the time/energy/skills he puts into it.I

With that in mind, here are my thoughts:1.

That being said, how does one go about getting architect plans for a home to get bids from contractors in a smart way?

The main issue with rental basement is water if it has water issue usually it is a simple fix .Clean gutters ,discharge gutter  water away 10" away from foundation, make sure you foundation soil is slopped away from it .If you need to buy soil get a clay mix .Cut back any tree too close to the foundation look at the drip line that's how far the limbs are out from the tree .If all that is done still has water buy a sump pump  carry the water to day light away from foundation 10" to 15" .

I kind of looked in that area, haven't driven up there to look around. 

You are designing a logo2.)

I had someone move in September and paid for that month.