Hi hive,I am new to investing and trying to learn from the different options out there. I have learned a lot from free information available on YouTube, forums, and blogs. I would like to purchase a structured course ...

Additionally, trying to spot paint even a white wall with white paint doesn't work, let alone other colors.

This was my first property, and while it's been a great learning experience, I made several mistakes along the way—ranging from choosing a realtor who was more focused on closing the deal than finding the right house to having a poor inspection and overlooking issues hidden beneath the surface (literally).

., same tile, paint, flooring, etc.

LL would have no incentive to paint, update flooring, etc.  

Security Deposit: 2600Lease states no smoking/painting walls/no hanging things on wallsTenants have moved out and have left two truck loads of garbage to be removed.Damaged doorPainted walls which got on the ceiling and trim Lots of holes on the walls throughout the houseDamage from windows being left open constantly Weed was clearly smoked in the house (smell throughout the place) so we need to deep cleanWater bill wasn't paid so I had to turn back on utilityMissing keyQuoted costs:$450 junk removal (some furniture)$935 for damaged doors/windows, painting cleaning$30 for utility turn onTenants were only there for a year before moving out so a lot of this is beyond normal wear and tear. 

I'm a pretty handy guy but this would be outside of my realm, but my experience helps me understand how much this type of improvement should cost.Improvements: remodel kitchen and bathroom, paint interior, fix exterior scafolding.How should I go about finding a contractor?

when I first started lending in Detroit in 2002.. the rehabbers there would paint the copper in the basements with grey paint in the low light theives would think its galvanized and not take it.

Can you arrange for counters, floors, painting other “basics” without him tacking on his 20%?

Painting and flooring are super easy.