Nervous about hiring a contractor

[Douglas T.]

I need to talk to and hire a contractor as I'm preparing to convert my condo in Chicago into a rental.  Most of the things on my list are small wear and tear items that have come up from living in the unit for 11years.  The biggest job is putting in a kitchen floor.  But, I've never talked to a contractor before.  I know next to nothing about construction and repair work.  I don't know if there is a set price or hourly rate.  I don't know what happens if they go over the estimate or time period.  I feel like there are a million questions that I don't even know to ask.  Can anyone direct me to a resource where I can get a feeling of how the meeting will go with the contractor, questions I should ask, things I should know, and things to watch out for.  I'd really appreciate any help you guys could offer.  Thanks!