I'm assuming with a name like handy pro connections he probably doesn't have a NJ HVAC/R license.

Its hard enough if the home was in your name let alone an LLC as your LLC can not get any bank financing.

You could start with your agent or a local agent who supports investors and could have contacts to refer to you.Lastly, you could consider negotiating with a local PM to take on a hybrid approach to management.  

Some have done owner financing with an agreement to pay all interest and equity splits when the home sells others have done it where they do a quitclaim adding their name onto title with the seller so once rehab is done the seller can't try and cut you out of the deal. 

If local sales support the new value then you should not have to deal with the seasoning requirement.

Have you looked into local credit unions or alternative financing programs?

Have you gone to any local meetups? 

Are you local to Richmond? 

You can't tell them to find you outside of Vrbo another way, like telling them to Google a name. 

., but there’s some good news for renters: local rents have dropped to a 3-year low, with decreases of up to $200.