Based on my experience even with hiring contractors you may also need to do some minor project management to keep the project on track.I definitely see what youre saying about the General Contractor saving me money in the long run due to him knowing local regulations better and getting better price on materials!

Vinicius,Hi, best place to find local like-minded Investors is the local Investors Club. 

I took my knowledge andstarted working with local private people to fund fix & flip'sthrough the use of notes & mortgages.

If yes, and if you do not have much experience yourself, I would engage a local civil engineer to guide you through the initial planning phases even before you get to design & construction. 

I need to keep everything very local for now, which is challenging, but I'm willing to face a challenge.

If it's feasible I always recommend to start investing locally and sourcing the deals, contractors and if interested manage yourself.

As far as getting best rents, I've seen professional photos make a huge difference and depending on your local market placing it all the typical property sites like Zillow, Trulia, etc.

Despite mortgage rates being double what they were two years ago, the overall borrowing environment remains favorable for state and local entities.Key initiatives driving this surge include efforts by entities like the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, which recently launched a $425 million bond sale aimed at providing affordable mortgages to over 2,700 families.

I started local because I was more hands-on and wanted to experience the process.

Don't attend the national roadshows training, but if there is a local guru that teaches classes, invest a weekend or whatever they offer.