But my rates are very high on BDC because there's no way to collect a deposit online from guests (and I'm not going to ask for cash in hand like BDC recommends). 

Online and by one in one How did you finance this deal?

post/code the deposits and expenses (loaded comment) Without even yet talking about expenses, just Deposits for example: Quick book takes time if you invoice and let renters pay you online.

I have started working with the mortgage broker my realtor recommended, but would like to get at least two other offers to compare.Mostly curious about going with a local person vs. some of the online sites, like Rocket Mortgage, etc.?

Disclaimer: While I’m an attorney licensed to practice in PA, I’m not your attorney.

Also - One "Best Practice" item would be to make sure you notify your losing bidders, just a quick call to explain that you've selected a different contractor for this particular project, you appreciate their time for putting together a bid, and that you hope to work together in the future.

I still have plenty more to explore, but am I just going to be treading water if I keep looking for contractors through online sources (yelp, homeadvisor) that won't blow my budget?

Practically speaking, what would the first step be?

I advise you against looking for an online boilerplate paperwork.

Then I would start with an online search for whatever they are called in your state.