Unless you need to sell fast, you'll typically get more money listing with an agent (even after commissions).

(figure product in the 2-3/Sq ft range, standard transitions)CERAMIC: $11.50/Sq ft with durarock (figure tile in the 2-3/Sq ft range, standard grade edging and transitions if applicable)A couple steps that might help you find a usable contractor:Retail stores will take you to the bank for flooring, typically. 

Idk why this is, because they are essentially the same thing.

Also, what is the typical rental cap in this area for condos?

These properties are typically valued around $80-90k.

I think If you find a way to lower your expenses you will essentially have more money to do flips.

I'm essentially looking to house hack. 

@Tim Hertz Congrats on your Duplex, that seems to be the common theme for Newbies.Your are correct, minimize risk by purchasing right and for me keeping emotions out of itThank you Tim.I have another offer I just put in on SFR, this one requires no rehab, essential a turnkey (not by real estate definition) I offered CASH (they say cash is king)Crossing my fingers Take care Brother 

Or more typical 2-4 unit residential? 

@Matthew Charron I do hope someone takes you up on your offer.In case no one does though, I'd recommend you attend a local real estate investor group like Black Diamond REI in southern Mass. or RI Real Estate Investors Group in RI.You'd want to engage several people in conversation, particularly during the times at the beginning and end of the meetings when folks typically network, and maybe ask a few folks out to coffee.Many people look for "mentors", and that might work for you, but another approach to consider would be just to try making friends with people who are one or two steps ahead.So maybe they're not successful full-time investors (the Holy Grail of Mentor-seeking), but instead own one or two rental properties, or have done one or two successful flips, or really anything in one of the directions you want to go.I find that can be easier to achieve, and you can get a lot out of it because such folks are very familiar with the challenges you face - after all, it wasn't long ago they were at that same point themselves.