I think it's more about the people honestly - if I decide that I'm going that route than I'd narrow it down to 4 or 5 cities and I'd try to meet some agents and property management companies from there. 

Michael,Maybe you could hire two, see how they do, then give All to the one that meets your expectations, is efficient and returns phone calls

You might also meet title agents who have resources on, say, foreclosures or probates…and might recommend lenders who actually lend on more difficult projects (as the title companies also know which lenders can close and which are difficult).I also go visit open houses to see what sorts of finish to put on my renovations or to look for the next house or area in which to purchase.  

That is going to be the best way to meet others in the industry from that market. 

Check out the CRREIA group which meets in Clifton Park for meetups.

Are you attractive tenants that meet your screening criteria readily and keeping them as long as you budget for (vacancy rate)?

Rare do I hear of recommendations but I do hear people asking.I would think in any big city you think about, a visit to a local NARPEM meeting or 2-3 visits would be a great idea. 

You can also check meetup.com or search Facebook for real estate investment groups, clubs, or meetings in your area.

Learn and save for a year before you do anything and meet as many other local investors as you can.

I spent a decade in advertising, before founding and running a custom wood shop for another decade, so 'm pretty good at the self-promotion.I agree with you that the more gorilla approach would be most effective and that's actually what i've been doing – calling RE agents in my service area with active listings, introducing myself to property managers and leasing agents...To answer your question, I will have to handle the work myself for 6-12 months to build out the SOPs and field service management systems, but I have a lot of relationships for those looking to "do the work".I'll check out the meet up and would love to grab a cup of coffee, I'll shoot you an email.