Here in Chicago, we've found some of our best contractors from other good contractors or investors; I've found the in-person meetups yield the best results, so maybe you can take a trip to Maryland? 

For example, I mention that every adult must pay a $30 application fee, pass my credit/criminal background, make a combined income of 3x the rent, and whether or not the property accepts pets.

If you are a control person, this can be a challenge but I have learned to let go over day to day issues that come up that I would do differently.Handypersons are a tough one.

However, I also have ways for them to pay with cash, card, money order, cashiers check, and personal check.

Personal recommendations don't always work.

Full background checks.IDs, names of all people to occupy house.All move in money received, no personal checkslease signed by All.Walk through inspection completed and signed.

Currently I manage personal rental property here in Canada.

Perhaps....but   the person relocating to any given market and who has to make a purchase in a finite period of time is generally the least likely candidate to get a great deal on the purchase, meaning the appreciation is even more important. 

That's the way I look at things personally. 

On the other hand, this phrase is often used by the likes of Uncle G (who, having an accounting degree, should really know better) to suggest claiming personal expenses as business deductions.