Finding Good Help with Property Upkeep

[Manco Snead]

Hello good people,

I know I am revisiting a common topic here, but would appreciate any feedback. I have a rental property (duplex) out of my area so have a property manager (family friend w/ experience of managing her own property) The big advantage with her is that I trust her completely and she cares. But she does not yet have a time tested list of reliable help. So, after years of owning this property I am realizing I still struggle with finding good help; landscapers, contractors, handymen etc.

How do others approach finding knowledgeable and reliable help? What systems have you used to reduce the risk of hiring the wrong people?

Any advice, stories, anecdotes are much appreciated.

Stay safe and thanks.