The design process can often take longer than the permitting process and so purchasing pre-designed plans online can cut out a lot of time for that scope (not to mention the amount of money saved).  

@Kyle TunallYes, contracts may be assigned (if so designated in the contract) - we do this frequently to place a property into a new/different holding company at Close.  

My previous career was Graphic Designer, I would be happy to provide some marketing value in this area to any active investors and other RE professionals in the area who believe they can provide experience value related to my strategy.Best and thank youNaz

Which means they must have a designated agency or exclusive agency agreement with their client.

Or, worst case scenario - is it possible that the town will never approve any new septic design, thereby leaving me stuck with a house I can never sell??

Avoid the "TR" design.

If you want to save some time and money, I would involve a Design Build Architect or a GC at the time of consulting with the Architect.

@Jim Brown, I'm not normally a fan of that style of house either, but I keep running into them as possibilities here in Buffalo, and I think they all look much better with this roof design piece :) I'd love to add something like this if I end up purchasing a split level/raised ranch.

Researching on the county web site showed a map of the area and how this parcel was in a zone designated "Geologic Hazard" because the slope was over 30%. 

You did a great job in both design and finish out.