I'll never forget what he told me, If you ever want to start purchasing real estate simply call this guy and write him a check and don't ask any questions.

I, like you, am a managing partner of a holding company, but unlike you, we are heavy into the real estate space.

Quote from @TJ Dittmar: Finally taking the steps to get started real estate investing.

"Diving into real estate as a newbie—ready to learn, connect, and turn knowledge into deals.

Spring and summer are busy. 

Matthew, DFW real estate is awesome.

What Nathan said.You are following the red herring of the (real or imagined) roach problem, but the tenant just told you they cannot afford a $35/mo. rent increase in an under market rent apartment!

Or maybe even the "Commercial Real Estate" forum.  

I have lived in Arkansas my whole life, lived in all parts of the state, and have been in real estate for the last 8 years here. 

And while nothing is foolproof the most consistent method of finding good vendors is relying on OTHER real estate investors that have worked with those vendors.