When during a BRRRR should a contractor give me an estimate?

[Michael Mackney]

Good morning guys! I am from Long Island, NY, and I am looking into getting my first real estate property out of state, with a potential BRRRR. My question is if I find a property that seems enticing via pictures, agent opinion, etc for a BRRRR, when should I have a contractor see it to give their opinion on the condition and estimate?

From what I have seen so far, properties fly off the market in a few days and I feel I would be missing out on a deal to send a contractor over to only then put an offer in? 

Should I put an offer in, and once it's approved, send a contractor out to see if the numbers make sense? 

Thanks!