I am working on an article describing this more in detail and the opportunities each class affords.

My broker is estimating around $1000/month expenses on a 30-year, I would put down 25% and after origination fees and  closing costs I would be looking at $45K out of pocket. 

I'm looking for a contractor to give me an estimate on the property. 

What’s the best way to ensure that the price they are charging me is reasonable and how can I hold them to the work/schedule/costs estimated to me?

I’ve been learning how to do different reno projects from watching and assisting in work being done in my parents house, watching shows on tv to learn some tips, shopping online for materials and learning the costs to get them done and installed, I have created a few extremely detailed budgets to familiarize myself with costs, I’ve studied a few areas I’m interested in and have been following their markets for years, and reading articles on different aspects of the business.

I decided not go to with it as the cost to convert from that system to A/C is hard to estimate.

Estimating 32k in repairs, although I'll probably need to hire a GC since I'm long distance.

If you are looking for some guidance it would help if you provide little more details of what it is you are trying to accomplish, or post a specific question. 

@Russell Brazil Thank you for that detailed list, I will try to make good use of it.

I don't know if I'm just over estimating repair costs or if I'm just missing something.As a realtor, I know my ARV is spot on that's the easy part for me.