How to estimate repairs

[Dan Miller]

How would I estimate repair costs as a beginning wholesaler? If the answer is to use a contactor, then I have another question. Why would a contractor want to work with a wholesaler (providing estimates) when the wholesaler won't ever be giving that contractor business (since the wholesaler is not doing the rehab work)?

In assessing my maximium allowable offer price, I imagine I wouldn't want to wait to get a contractor into each property to estimate repair costs, so how do you normally calculate your maximum offer price without this information? (or what assumptions do you make on repairs in this case)?

Thanks,
Dan