Then you'll need to build a team of contractors to handle renovations and to help with things such as property inspections.

Section 8 can be a profitable and reliable resource but it is 'their ball, their court' so know the rules first.

Is there a reliable source to get this information from other than agents? 

You could build or flip less expensive units and sell them to your clients/occupants over time.

People often say it’s best for those with just a few listings, but I can vouch for its reliability even with over 85 listings.

These methods include: Detailed Engineering Cost ApproachDetailed Engineering Cost Estimate ApproachSurvey or Letter ApproachResidual Estimation ApproachSampling or Modeling ApproachExperience or “Rule of Thumb” ApproachIt’s important to understand the differences between the approaches including which one best fits your property and the reliability of each approach.DETAILED ENGINEERING COST APPROACHThis approach compiles the costs from construction and accounting reports to build a report.

Higher-quality areas attract tenants who are more reliable and tend to take better care of the property.

Late payments, property damage, and evictions are avoidable when you have a PM who knows how to find reliable renters.I encourage you to seek out a property management company that emphasizes tenant screening and uses modern tools for verification.

Do you have any referrals to build a solid network on the ground?   

Quote from @Kyle Carter: I want to buy an apartment building and rent it out to all section 8 tenants.