All of my models are BIM and hold architectural, structural and mechanical systems. As for Revit, it kind of became standard in the field, so its pretty easy work along side other consultants which specialize in their respective building fields.
I have become accustomed to Revit, it has its bugs, but I've manage how to work around them. One feature I really like and I've seen it grow, Is the File Link options from revit to max. In 2008 it was very cluncky and sometimes not useable. But now it works really well, so in theory you build out your model in revit and file link it in max. The beauty about this process is that you don't loose textures you previously made, so you can work your models from design development, schematic design all the way to as-built and visualize in max along all of those steps. I havent tried archicad lately (5 years years or so), but I recommend you stick to a modeler where you can model AEC systems and maintain the link to max. Visualization is the future, also construction companies are buying into it.
I have to get good at displacement, I will follow your advice. Thank you.