Has the architect given you a written proposal?

The architect should be guiding you through this process but first check the state registration database.

Assuming this is being billed hourly, ask them to add a Not To Exceed clause for the amount they think it will take. That way you have a chance to discuss any extra hours needed before you get a surprise bill.

Spotty communication BEFORE the contract is signed. Run away now.

I don't think you're ready to sign anything at this point for a number of reasons.

Design and construction are highly interdependent. Design might represent as much as 10% of project cost (excluding land,) but it drives much of the other 90% of project costs. You need to set your project up for success. Doing that requires that the contractor who'll be responsible for the 90% is on board early in the process.

I recommend you select a team that has a track record of working together and delivering projects on time and on budget. This could be an independent architect/designer and a contractor or a design-build firm. In either case, getting your contractor on board early in the design phase can inform the design with real-world cost information. This will help ensure you don't sink a lot of money into a design that you've fallen in love with, but never gets built because it's way out of budget.

Best wishes for a successful project.

I wrote a longer piece on evaluating architects and builders here.

But your worries about communication at this stage would be a deal-breaker for me. This is the stage where the architect should be on their best behavior, trying to woo you. They're trying to get money from you. Once they HAVE the money, I can't imagine things will get better. And good (or at least compatible) communication is probably more important than skill or cost or anything else.