@Patrick Pan not all states take such measures, and you can ask a reputable tenant screening company in your area how that works.  

From what I’ve heard, there are reputable local management companies in regions like San Antonio or Omaha that handle everything from screening tenants to arranging quick repairs.

That’s how they make money.You need a good reputable real estate lawyer to see you through this. 

I'm considering a fixer upper to retain as a rental but need guidance on how to pick reputable contractors.  

@Devonair Jackson   PCMag is a reputed publication and they seem to like it as shown herehttps://www.pcmag.com/reviews/zoho-crm

Meaning you can spend the time traveling to the market(As we did for 18 Months once per quarter) or you can seek a reputable operator in the market you want to invest in and leverage their team. 

Also you mention he has an awful reputation yet you acknowledged in your initial post you repeatedly buy properties his brokerage represents...not quite adding up.

To paraphrase Warren Buffet “it takes a lifetime to build your reputation and only a moment to destroy it”

No reputable PM's around here that I am aware o. 

I would suggest shopping it around a little more until you find a lender that offers reasonable terms and has a positive reputation.