They're thicker and have a slightly different look, but for most purposes (non-high-end homes) the HD ones work fine.http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-Bright-Snow-White-3-in-x-6-in-Ceramic-Wall-Tile-U072-36-1N/100123655?

I only use porcelain, but the big box stores run good sprecials on cheap ceramic, if it happens to be the look and durability you want.There's a local discount wood flloor place that sells prefinished hard wood flooring with good selection and good prices, but raw hardwoods, I go direct to the mill (which would only be for top of the line, to pay for all the finishing when pre-finished is so easy.)Some of these guys, I can call and order and I'll get just whay I want delevered.

PATRIOT BUILDERS - Southeastern Michigan and Mid-Michigan.Experienced in Flipping - General Contractor - All Trades on Staff:  Framers, Drywall, Interior Trim, Ceramic Tile/Flooring and more.  1 crew dedicated to your investment from start to finish.I purchased a home at auction last week for $17k, it has an approx value of $30k-$35k..... 

You never know who might have a good referral for you check out.For me vital people can do the following:frame, drywall, mud, paint, lay flooring, instal electrical, ceramic, plumbing the list goes on...Finding one person with enough skills can be tough, but it can be done.

I renovated this house with ceramic floors and hardwood throughout so maintenance costs are higher justifying the higher rents.

The only upfront cost I have to pay is the flooring on the first floor where I will be in the kitchen which was a peel and stick tile and I measured the area it will cost around 600-800 to replace for ceramic tiles but that's a personal expenses since I will be living there 

Comps none available, tax assessed $46,000 reasonable guess $32,000 to $35,000.Tri-plex 1st floor: 1-2 BR, kitchen w/new ceramic tile & oak cabinets, remodeled bath,previously rented for $400 + utilities. 2nd floor: 1 BR, remodeled kitchen & bath rents for $300. 3rd floor: efficiency + kitchen & bath, rents for $285.

Moisture resistant drywall will be used in all wet locationsAll ceramic tile will be installed on 1/2" cement board or a concrete PaintNew Switches, Receptacles, GFCIs and cover plates to codeHardwired smoke detectorsCarbon Monoxide DetectorsBathroom: Install Ceramic tile on walls for tub and floorInstall new pre-hung 6 panel hollow core doorNew Toilet with ring and supplyNew Vanity with faucet, drain and supply linesInstall new light fixtureInstall bath exhaust fanNew medicine cabinetInstall New TubBathroom Accessories (Toilet paper holder, towel bars, etc.)Bedrooms / Living room:Install new pre-hung doorInstall all trim ( Door Casing, Base, Shoe)Install Flooring material (Carpet, Hardwood,Laminate )Install New Light fixtureInstall Closet door (Type to be decided)Kitchen:    Install Ceramic floorInstall New kitchen cabinetsInstall Counter top (Granite/Corian/Laminate)Install New Undermount sink and faucet Install Ceramic backsplash with accentInstall Light fixturesInstall garbage disposal (if applicable)Install Dishwasher (If applicable)Install all trimInstall pre-hung pantry door (If applicable)All material types will be selected by you and installed by us.

@Mike Hibbs let me try to help by sharing my personal experience regarding costs from up here in Massachusetts, which is not very significant to you but it might help anyways, here it goes:Full bathroom: $5-12K (depending on size, fixtures, stone, ceramic, etc.)Kitchen cabinets: $250 - 350 / linear foot (midrange cabinets)Appliances: 2-3K (midrange)Drywall and finish work: $50-75 / square feet.Now, if you are gutting the entire place to replace the electrical and plumbing, costs will be definitely be much higher.Plus you will need to check the HVAC, roof, lawn, driveway, garage, etc.Keep us posted on your findings and results!

My wife is stay at home mom and I work in construction (flooring-ceramic, hardwood as well as remodeling).