Since you have your license the first thing that I would consider is where you'd like to concentrate your activities.

I am interested in using the BRRRR method to build a Buy and Hold portfolio, and the stronger rents seem concentrated around Old Shell and Airport and Schillinger area.

Many of these are non-warrantable buildings because the concentration of investors is too high or a single shareholder owns too many units in the co-op.

General contractors are contractors certified to work and have knowledge in most all aspects of that system, unlike other contractors who can have very specific concentrations and knowledge bases.

Example:"Even though the west side of Providence has done well over the last 10 years, the area is convenient to me and I still think there is a lot more room for growth, so I will concentrate most of my buy-and-hold efforts there.

Apartments are different because the concentration of tenants increases the risks of ownership, there is a difference between someone who trips over a skateboard left on a step by a neighbor kid than by one left by your kid on the front porch.Insurance takes care of most risks, but not all, the risks not covered stem from your management and knowledge, which is the very best defense. 

If you concentrate on finding distressed sellers, then you will have the best chance of having an agreement that suits you because the seller has few choices.I have had as many as 225 options in place at one time, never paying more than $1 for option consideration.Good luck.