So @James Green, to answer your question I pushed full steam ahead with inspectors and got a normal inspector, boiler system inspection, sewer line scoped, etc.  

To me that just isn't worth it financially, I think there are many other jobs you can do to get a decent salary and simultaneously invest in RE or other businesses, which will put you miles ahead of most doctors.It really comes down to where your interests/strengths are, what you prioritize, and your true internal motivation. 

Any input to help this "newbie" get ahead of the learning curve and start doing some deals is greatly appreciated.  

You are not in a good place to do as you plan financially and would be farther ahead to stick to your original plan to flip for a profit.

Should I have contractor estimates ahead of time?

NEVER NEVER NEVER let your contractors get ahead of you on the money side.  

Keep 1031ing and using those tax deferred dollars to buy more real estate of the type you want and gradually shift it to passive or low maintenance real estate vehicles so your work load is reduced.  

You do not get ahead by accepting loses or choosing to not do business.

Dallas-area home prices surge ahead in latest nationwide comparison

All my vehicle loans and all my other businesses bank there.