The site I used made it easy to compare local quotes and find affordable options without compromising on quality.

Does not have to be local, since these are mostly general issues, not State (I've used advisors in other states but for other issues). 

My local loan officer said I would be able to get a loan up to $450k, if I rent my current home out and the property, I’m going for is a duplex+.

, what made you feel secure taking the leap with hard money and going after that first flip.Partnering with an investor or doing seller financing would be ideal, but I'm still growing my network by cold calling other investors and real estate agents and attending local events.

Northern New Mexico is the next front range of Colorado (unfortunately for locals, but fortunately for investors) this is a great appreciation market, but you will not find a Cash flowing rental unless you are willing to put in the work for an off market BRRRR.

Thanks for your local insights-

I would not venture beyond your skill set and suggest you risk harming yourself, such as getting electrocuted, however, once you have completed your work, have it inspected with the local building inspector.

We have tried reaching out to numbers of local CPAs in the Sacramento area to have them help crunch the numbers and haven't had any luck at all.

In other areas it could be other chains like groceries or local chains. 

Couldn’t have said it better myself I am very active within NARPM at the Local, State, and National level.