Any suggestions on some reasonable, reliable contractors for metal contemporary style railings ?  

I'm a licensed Architect married to an amazing Interior Designer.

I don't do all of it - I've paid for new windows to be installed, and new gas space heaters, but SO much stuff you can find out how to do on YouTube and just gives you more knowledge overall to prevent contractors from dicking you around too!

If one was to GC a new construction or a flip project (in NJ) would you need to take out a general contractor insurance policy or does the builders risk insurance policy on each property as well as hiring fully insured sub-contractors suffice?  

The owner may be taking the position that since you passed your inspection period/attorney review period if you have one (I am assuming this) that either you close as per contract or you don’t, and perhaps you lose your EM.

Is the partner acting as a Contractor, and needs a 1099 for this service?

@Tim SiochengTim, I am a local buy-and-hold DIY landlord and home improvement contractor in Western PA.

Anyone have any rockstar GC's they can recommend for St. Paul/Minneapolis are remodeling work?

Many jurisdictions will let you do it if you live there, but once you start getting into foundation work, many require a 3rd party engineer and contractor get involved. 

@Drew Slew, find an experienced contractor / developer to partner on this deal.