However; once you're in that range the materials and finishes used are high end, and subs charge top dollar.

For example: Where can I learn about the most common problems (and home to spot them) concerning:FlooringThe RoofThe FoundationElectrical Plumbing/PipesPaintingDrivewayEtc..Can anyone point me to good info on this (repair costs, best materials, life expectancy?)

This site is full of great material. 

Perhaps you pay for materials, but pay them for their labor afterwards, once you are satisfied with the work.But if you are hiring a GC for a $50k rehab, then you can expect to pay in several tranches, say 6 x $8k with $2k upon final punch list completion, or something along those lines. 

Given that, I'd say, ensure that you have a well diversified portfolio that includes everything: Wall Street investments, and various type of alternatives in real estate and beyond. 

But, if you need to meet with someone for an hour or two during the day, and know in advance the day and time and need a professional environment, they provide a nice alternative.

I have found that when you do your own work efficiently and/or your own contracting, the money you save from being attentive, knowing the true costs, and being ready to do what needs to be done yourself, if need be(or because you enjoy the type of work) is easily enough to cover improved materials.

They incurred expenses from: buying boxes and packaging materials, renting a Uhaul truck as well as utility disconnect fees.

Also the treads are 84.5 inches long.. which creates a material issue if I don't carpet.

@Stacy MansonAt this time with such low balance you simply don't have enough to do any alternative investments.