Dropping family friends contractors

[Sheba Shimoji]

Ok, I really need a new CPA who is specialized in real estate. This might be a stupid question, but my current CPA is one of my family friends and he has been very nice to me. I am really sorry not to keep using him but he didn't even know how 1031ex works... How should I tell him (or not to tell him) that I am switching an accountant? 

This can also apply to my plumber...my husband's family member is a plumber and we've been kinda obligated to use him but he does horrible jobs and I am not comfortable using him any more. 

Did anyone experienced a similar situation? If so, how did you overcome the situation without damaging the relationship with them?