Do you choose your contractor BEFORE or AFTER you buy?

[Tony Robinson]

Hey All! 

So I'm looking at purchasing my first investment property. Here's the thing though, I live in the California, the investment property is in Shreveport, Louisiana. 

I'm working with an Agent out there, and he has a contractor that he's recommending. But I want to make sure that I'm getting the best return on my money. 

My big question is, how do you get the most accurate rehab costs before you purchase a property? Do you have multiple contractors come out and bid on the work before you close? 

Do you have one contractor come out and give you an estimate, and then once you close on the property, do you have more contractors come out to make additional bids? 

Any help would be GREEAAAATLY appreciated!