I’ve been researching local professionals and would welcome any advice on how to vet and connect with reliable team members, particularly in a high-cost area like the Bay Area.As for hard money, I haven’t explored it in depth yet, but I’m open to the idea for the right deal.

Even professionals “short cut” the process and invest without almost any research.  

There is still a trickle of traveling medical professionals, but I see a lot of relocation needs.

And, those who invest in certain markets today, will, I believe, be rewarded for taking the 1 in 1,000 risk of having a "professional tenant" truly take advantage of them. 

As a professional property manager, I'm coming across an interesting trend related to institutions providing financial assistance for tenants who have trouble paying their security deposit and I would love to hear feedback from the BP community.Large PM companies have begun partnering with financial institutions, such as Rhino Insurance, to help tenants who struggle with paying their security deposit.

Hindsight is 20/20.Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Since you're investing from a distance, I recommend interviewing multiple agents, lenders, property managers, contractors, and other professionals to build a strong and reliable team.

If a residential contractor can take the AIA system, paired with the commercial professionalism and apply it to their residential business, I can't imagine how they wouldn't be successful. 

Did you take professional photos and what do you have the amount for rent?

Then build a team of professionals around you and take action.