The only contractor I pay in advance is for countertops (50% up front for material). 

I liked that it was going to be mainly a cosmetic rehab - carpet, LVP flooring, painting, some electric, light plumbing, and refinished countertops.

There is no other type of real estate where an appraiser will say that a $5k counter-top upgrade actually adds $5k of value compared to an equally new counter-top that costs $5k less.

I mainly purchase properties in A and B class neighborhoods and all of my new rental listings are well renovated (stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, central air, recessed lighting, updated flooring, etc.).

Home had hardwood floors and granite kitchen counter tops the previous owner added, intending to live there as a retired building inspector and he was willing to owner finance it to me with 0% down so I took the deal.

However, I am personally not comfortable relying solely on a single opinion, and would love to educate myself further on the subject of rehabbing and cost estimation.With that said, I would greatly appreciate it if any experienced investors could recommend some valuable resources such as articles, books, or videos that provide insight into the various options when rehabbing a property and the pros and cons of each approach.For instance, I would love to learn more about the price and quality differences between laminate and marble countertops, and how to make the right choice when it comes to BRRRR strategy.Your suggestions and insights would be of tremendous help to me, and I am grateful for any advice or guidance you can provide.Thank you for taking the time to read my post.

I also go to choose some of the finishing touches like all tile floors, the appliances, and the quartz counter tops.

Hand cut and stained butcher block countertops.

Solar, propane for heater & shower, mini split, fridge that runs off DC, tongue & groove ceiling with puck lights, farm house sink with butcher block counter tops, full bed with storage underneath, 3 seatbelts connected to couch that turns into 2nd full bed, all electric is stored under bench, an induction stove top, fully furnished with pots, pans, and work out essentials, and our favorite part: A ROOFTOP DECK to enjoy the sites.

Claims he has surplus countertops and other materials to improve it.