These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

Leverage will be reduced from the max available, reserve requirements increased and, typically, you would be required to use a professional property manager.

Hey Brian, Generally, a HML org will want to see some diligence around the contractor or get some idea of past work if you're doing the work yourself.

My contractor brought me a house off the market.

I am not an accountant or tax professional so I would recommend talking to your account about what that means and maybe some strategies on how to reduce your tax liability

Quote from @Aaron Wolman: General question, I am turning over my first rental and I got the charges from my contractor on damage done and I want to see peoples opinion. 

For example "Just get 3 estimates from general contractors.." is a lot easier written than done!!

I would have to have a walk through with a professional to give me an appropriate estimate. 

The successful wholesalers are the ones that are direct with the seller and have done an analysis on the deal to show it can be a successful investment (always double check with your own)totally agree, I would add the don't act sketchy and present their available homes in a consistent/professional manner to buyers. 

As a General Contractor myself here in east central Texas, I can tell you that connecting with local GCs via Facebook groups can be incredibly helpful.