I am not in WNY so I can't help you with a contractor recommendation.
I only offer some advice.
If you have a wet basement, don't ignore or cover up the problem. If it's wet, you have to fix that problem first.
If you have utilities in your basement, don't box them in a closet around your existing water heater, HVAC, etc. My sister bought a house with a finished basement and they did that - and when you want to put a new HVAC in or need room to remove the existing water heater, there is nowhere to go.
You'll probably need a secondary egress out of your basement - that may get pricey if you need to excavate for an egress window.