I know contractors seem to be the most difficult piece of the real estate puzzle but any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! 

Is he an integral/necessary piece to the puzzle?

This will dictate where you purchase and look for properties based on that number alone.My point is that you always start with the end in mind and work it backwards, this creates the strategy (Buy and hold, flip, Wholesale, Notes) which will be driven by the tactic (SFR, MFR, Mobile homes, Short term rental etc) I always coach people and explain that the property is actually the last piece of the puzzle not the first.Hope this helps

Its a very simple process , you can do it.. but as mentioned you do not need one, ,,,yet, find a deal,1st, that is the most important part of this crazy puzzle, 

Honestly, contractors are one of the most difficult pieces of the puzzle.

Also, finding a solid property management partner was the most important piece of the puzzle for me. 

The missing piece to my puzzle is getting the leads.

When they started the lease, they appeared to be reasonable, decent human beings.... and it puzzled me that they could change to be different people.

Does anyone have recommendations on that piece of the puzzle?

You have the most important piece of the puzzle already, leads!