I individually priced all my materials and got several estimates from contractors.

Any licensing? 

I currently have a rental property and am looking at getting my real estate license and building a property management and property maintenance company to serve my investments and potentially others. 

Find a contractor to help with repairs estimates or read J Scott’s book on Estimating Rehab Expenses.Good luck getting started!

Any referrals or recommendations for good and qualified brokers, sellers, property management companies, loan brokers, insurance brokers, mortgage brokers, contractors, etc.

So yes, get a good General Contractor and have him bid it specifically to what you want. 

Especially when the insurance paid for it, contractors don't cut corners.We have probably several water issues every year across the portfolio.

If they are, I would pay them off first.I would invest in a different market(likely bigger market) where you can find reliable contractors or find a PM that will be able to manage the properties.

Chris kept having reasons for delays, blaming it on the contractor.

This factoring includes the presence of competent contractors who can limit unforeseen surprises and costs.Myth 2: They're Too Risky to Invest InThere is risk in any investment; however, distressed properties are not inherently riskier than any other real estate investment.