More newby questions on buying a fixer upper in Maryland

[Mike Collins]

Hi all,

Thanks to everyone that replied to my earlier post. I've since done a bit of research and have found a property Im interested in but it will require some work. Besides for the required fixes, I'd like to make upgrades or changes to the property. I hope to use a FHA/203k to purchase and fix up the property. That being said, Id like a contractor to provide a quote for repairs and upgrades. For repairs, I'm guessing it would be straight forward (fingers crossed). For upgrades, I don't know - because I literally don't know what Id want, but would be hoping for suggestions that would increase the value of the property and make it attractive to renters when I leave in a few years.

So for the upgrades, do I need a specialist? If so what type? Piggyback - can anyone make a suggestion/referral ? 

If a general contractor can handle each/all of the above - same thing, any referrals?  Thanks in advance!