@Henry D West I do much the same thing Account Closed except that I use a lease option or agreement for sale (commonly called a land contract or contract for deed in the states) because they work better for me here in Ontario.

There's ways out there to best guestimate repair costs to get close as possible and there's also an option to have a contractor give me their professional estimate.

How can I assure that contractors won't take me for a ride?)

Sure contractors cost more in higher end markets, but the materials are roughly the same in price, while the deposit can differ significantly. 

I am a contractor and willing to help if someone needs advice on the construction side of the business.

Right now, I don’t have a lot of cash, but I am looking to get financing on multis, single, or raw land zoned for r2 and above near the theme parks, winter garden, Davenport, Kissimmee, no more than 160-180k I also am looking for referrals to property managers for when I do acquire more, as well as legit handy men/ contractors.

Currently has problems with mildew, paint bubbles, etc.4) Is the estimated cost between 1,500-2,000 with a contractor doing the work?

Most people don't know that your typical insurance agent from a big name company has very little experience in working with investors, especially investors that are also contractors or GC's.

The only difference is that the actual electric bill would remain the same and not be reduced.

I had their utilities disconnected, electric meter pulled.