Choosing the right architect and/or contractor?

We are about to close on a 2-family townhouse that is in livable condition, but has a long list of updates and renovations we are hoping to make (some cosmetic, and some structural). We are unsure of how to go about hiring an architect and contractor for this work. Some have advised that we hire an architect first, and have them draw up a ‘bid set’ that we put out to contractors to bid on. Others have said that it’s better to find an architect + contractor team that are accustomed to working together because it smooths out and speeds up the process and makes for more accurate pricing and timeline estimation. Some have said to start with a budget, while most architects we’ve spoken with are saying to expect a minimum price-per-square foot, irrespective of what updates we plan to make (most of which we haven’t even decided on yet). For those who have been happy with your renovation experience, can you share how you went about finding the best team to help you? What do people think about design + build companies? Can you recommend any architects, contractors, and/or project managers?