Addition construction advice/guidance needed

[zacs]

We are in the beginning phases of looking at a major addition to our home.

This is not something we will do for a few years, but I need to start some preliminary research now.

I guess my first question is, where do I start? What we want to do would be considered pretty major project. I want to put a second floor on our ranch, which would add about 1800 sq. feet.

I would think I need an architect, right? How/where can I find one?

Another question: Is it possible/feasible to raise the ceiling height of my current one story (ranch) when I add on a second floor?

I have some more questions, but lets start there.