I would also join every FB group for investors, from local to California, and post the package there as well.

Our current manager is in Huntsville and it is becoming clear that we need someone more local to Cullman who can be on top of showing our listings and taking charge of maintenance and repairs as needs arise. 

I'm not opposed to spending the money and have a demo scheduled with them this week, but was curious if anybody else has other data providers that they like better for more niche areas of distress such as bankruptcy, probate, divorce, code violations etc. that I can stack with my current data.I have submitted right-to-know requests with the local counties but only certain information is available and can be cumbersome.

I'd check local zoning ordinances to see what is permitted. 

Check your local laws to see when rent is actually late. 

Those willing to go beyond that could be good partners for real estate investors.Traditional banks/Local Banks and non-bank lenders - If they are a portfolio lender, meaning they actually hold on to the loan and don't just collect your payment, then they have the ability to be flexible.

My wife and I are real estate investors based in Katy, and I/we are looking to connect with local investors, real estate agents, property managers, and contractors in the area.

I would outline your scenario to a few local mortgage brokers - with everything you've said this seems like a pretty easy deal. 

What worked for me was listing on multiple platforms - Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and even local community bulletin boards.

If I was local to the property I would be more okay with it rather than if I was investing in older in a different state.