That will allow you to build up a network of contractors and suppliers that will enable to to address problems faster and more cost effectively.I would also recommend buying a home warranty program if you are planning to hold the property and make upgrades over time. 

For example, talked to someone the other day and find out about a cabinet supplier I didn't know of that should save us quite a bit without sacrificing quality at all.

Your name, license number,brokerage (if any) and license status is publicly available.The NAR,State Board,and local boards have agreements with suppliers to give your contact information away to them so they can advertise their services to you.Be prepared for an avalanche of emails and snail mail in the next few weeks.

Tyler, after Lehman you need both a 750+ FICO AND a 80+ PayDex which will require a EIN/DUNS maybe reporting vendors/suppliers or you can go directly into business credit cards if you have a good FICO and then credit lines/loans after those are reporting.

Go to the material supplier your prospective contractor uses and ask them if they know him.

A locksmith or a door hardware supplier can help you out on this.  

Builders grade materials look high end from lowes or HD cost maybe 15% less than high end materials from other suppliers that also look nice and may feel nicer.The labor costs are no different when using the more expensive materials, except in cases like tile floor vs LVP since more labor is required for proper subfloor.If you really want to keep costs down go with the cheaper materials.

They have the contacts with suppliers, they have a history and reputation that you may not, they can come up with cost-effective optional products that you may not have considered.

Whether it's contractors, lawyers, suppliers or partners, I always try to meet with and communicate with these people several different times before agreeing to do business with them. .

We help produce a business plan for a potential business and then made a recommendation on whether or not they should go ahead based on that plan.Other areas you can look to for help are potential Professionals you will need (Accountants, Lawyers, Insurance Agents, Suppliers, etc.)