Do walkthrough on my own first, or bring along a general contractor

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I recently found a few properties I'm interested in. From the outside, they look pretty run down. I have no clue what the interiors look like yet. Based on the price and exterior, I'm pretty sure it's going to need quite a bit of work.

I'm just starting the BP book on estimating rehab costs, so I've got a tiny bit of background knowledge, but not nearly enough to be accurate on my own.

Should I checkout the property myself first and try to come back with a GC after I'm sure I want to pursue a particular property or would it be best to try to find one to come with me to the first viewing?

I'm leaning towards just going by myself that first time, but with how competitive San Francisco is, I'm not sure that I'll get a chance to do a second viewing with a GC.

Curious what you guys recommend.