When do you bring in contractor?

[Erik Pfundstein]

Hi guys im looking to BRRR in near future as a first investment purchase, most likely 3-4 plex. When im looking at properties on zillow, etc (not yet using a local realtor but i will be for MLS) sometimes all you can see are pictures of the outside. I know Brandon on the podcast mentions he usually wont visit a property until after in contract. As my first purchase i will see it myself. But Since i wont be a good judge at estimating rehab costs, how can I come up with a good offer based on rehab needs? Does anyone in here go see the properties with a contractor prior to making an offer? I feel like that is a waste of time for contractor and he probably wont do it more than once. Or do you give it a wild guess and hope to not be too far off, renegotiate during inspection after an accepted offer? What if the number is far off and u need a major renegotiation? How does the conversation with a contractor go, do you always have them use their guys for the work? I feel like i have a good grasp on a lot of the process except the dealing with contractors part... Thanks appreciate any info. Erik