If the GC has done or is doing similar projects you can create a quick estimate using cost per SF and this will give you broad all in number. 

Online coverage has been broad too, with a heavy East Coast focus but extending as far as the Time’s newspaper in the UK and James Edition in China. 

However, the question is very broad that responders to your post may have a hard time finding where to start.They also don't know your specific tax situation so it is hard to provide you with specific advice. 

I know on a broad scale what cities typically offer cash flow and which ones don't.

Define what type of asset you are trying to buy, area, size of property, price point, etc.Your question is too broad.

The tenants I have and have had are all over the spectrum in terms of reliability.

Your appliances will be stolen in broad daylight. 

You can usually get a broad sense of work needed from pictures but not always.  

If you are a licensed salesperson on the residential side then you could have more broad options to generate revenue such as a (flipper, rental investor, home buyer, etc.)In the higher end areas wholesaling is almost non-existent.

This house is the only 5 bedroom in the immediate area, so should I expect to charge rent at the high end of the spectrum?