This is how you set the contractor up for success helping them be more profitable and avoid issues which will put you on the top of their list.After several projects you should be able to build a database of costs so you can set and control the budget.

Fancy way of saying I did It myself, it helps I'm a web developer and database guru.

I try to keep a database of about 50-100 clients and the more the better because if one client doesn't like the property it is always good to have a back up or two that might be interested, since my least favorite thing is to have to send the cancellation notice on my buyers agreement.Benjamin

Crexi is another, seemingly lower used, database.  

You can screen using databases as well. 

It becomes more about creating a database of good numbers. so you can make a higher-quality call. 

If this is a broker I would see if they can check any other lenders that they have in their network that could give you a better rate/term on the loan (they can check their database pretty quick). 

- Is there a central database where you can access different websites for different states/city/county which has tax deeds listed or googling particular state/city/county "tax sale" is the right way to go?

Stuff gets entered into their system when it gets flagged in the county database for changes to title, then they research. 

Take this info and build yourself a costs data base so you will have it moving forward.