So sorry for you & very surprised to learn that that area has such little demand to support residential architects ... only commercial firms it seems. That said, it's the former you want and not the latter and the reason not just specialize experience. What they say - if commercial architect firms - is true .... been there, done that. You would need a residential lover architect firm of only 1-4 designers and none "cutting their teeth" on your project; all licensed working on your proejct is ideal.
Your sequence of searches would be
1. small architect firms, residential specialty
https://ebizws.mt.gov/PUBLICPORTAL/searchform?mylist=licenses2. from residences you find & love, their Owners can point you to the designer
3. internet plans can be modified to somewhat suit BUT not really tailored to your lifestyle, no Site Plan, no aproporiate Foundation Plan, no IQ discussion/guidance
FYI: eventually all these options should cost about the same; by-the-hour also costs about the same as by-the-SF quotes and you get more plans/services on point with your goals.
This firm cannot produce work in other states but willing to look over your shoulder - gratis - for awhile, just to insure you get on the correct path.
4. Looking back at the Design-Build option if it becomes the only path:
PROS
If similar to other plans built, your costs are more known up front and can guide the design/modifications.
You project gets ahead in line of other work.
CONS
Designs have been very very limited and not so much catering to your lifestyle
Depending on the builder, your tweaks, options, choices become harnessed to whatever the builder claims they cost; best to stick to builder assembly line choices
Inability to solicit bids, even though low-bidders are not always a wise choice this process can reveal flaws to avoid, e.g. too busy, too many spec.houses that also diverts attention, high bids that suggest disinterest or a risk seen overrated, etc.
I think I have listed these design options in order of limitations.
The fewer limitations, the longer Owners love & remain in their houses and if forced to sell, usually get "asking price".
Ten words or less ... a goal unattainable
