Started out by first getting my real estate license and learning the business.  

I figured getting my license would be a great way to get my foot in the door and could also help in my REI goals.

Not licensed in NJ and do not know all the regulations, but I am fairly certain you can't do it the way you are.

It takes a good bit of tenacity for surenarrow what market you want to invest in, start building relationships with people on the ground (realtor, lender, property manager, contractors), learn the market extremely thoroughly, then start bidding.

Suggest you first get your real estate license.......

I feel comfortable about the location/price however am concerned about the general contractor part of things.

Since turn key companies consistently use the same crews and usually keep them fully employed, the can control their labor costs more and control the quality of work; Contractors can be hard to manage when you're local.

Was looking for some contractor referrals (e.g. cleaners, handymen, electricians, plumbers, HVAC) - any recommendations?

Real Estate License - I have my license, I'm thinking I'll activate it as soon as I have the cash to make the deals work better in a tight market, any tips BP community?

(she's licensed in new york and got her NC license this year).she's had the benefit (I am the lucky one though) of being my sidekick for years and experiencing my dealings.