I paid the contractor too much, too soon, hence the work did not get completed.Don't buy a house you are afraid to visit.  

I am afraid to give my only money saved and get ripped off, I am a contractor and have been doing flip homes for buyers for the last 5 years ,and I want to do my own flips ,but only have this ($3000) I'm thinking of giving them to do the deal ,and ($1000) set aside for earnest money. 

Do your research, check multiple resources, and find people you can trust.Don't be afraid to ask questions but try to be specific.Bad question: "How do I get started in real estate?"

There is no need to stress you will get your commission, I’m just afraid your intentions are a little bit misconstrued here.

I have a background as a skilled tradesman and I'm definitely not afraid of touching up some minor stuff on properties to make them more appealing.

I am purchasing these apartment complexes now at about $33,000 a door in a blue collar good hard working neighborhood where I would not feel afraid for my 16 year old niece to walk around at 9:00 pm. on a Friday night. 

Also, I would hope they are not CASH ONLY, that just makes me think they are afraid of appraisals.Try looking at:The Best Types of Markets for Profitable Turnkey PropertiesandWhat to Ask When Working With a Turnkey Provider

Also, do not be afraid to familiarize yourself with areas that you may not have considered investing as well.

So don’t be afraid to hear no and just put it out there.

Don’t be afraid one bit to speak with the bank your most familiar with to learn your position and buying power.