Also thank you and @David Tipton for the advice on the material - BP is such a plentiful source it's incredible! 

When it comes to purchasing materials for a rehab, how do you get the GC to purchase all of the materials tin order to avoid them being listed as your employee?

The material cost is roughly the same compared to hardwood or laminate, but labor will run a little higher.

The main meeting is either more advanced material or sometimes a Guru selling a kit or book or program.  

If this is the extent of the damage, and there is no underlying/ongoing problem, then cutting out the loose material and spackling should be sufficient (and painted of course).

Your time here will be well spent.Since you expressed an interest in rentals, I added three links below for your review.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/03/27/financing-options-rental-property-guide/ (financing options for rentals)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

Overall peace of mind from the "C" investor that the transaction is handled legally.A benefit to the wholesaler is that the profit on the deal is not disclosed and not material. 

If you want to calculate the price of stairs in a typical two floor story Chicago building I would consider 15k to 20k including material and labor.

So i would like to purchase a three unit home in brooklyn NY -  my first investment property -  I was told by a broker that i would have a very tough time getting a residential loan as i already have a home. this information did not sound right to me - is it accurate?

Moving to a new area with no contacts will be tough.