Don't know if your state uses lawyers or escrows, but find a reputable person that can and will guide you through the deal. 

HUD requires that I fix a few things, so i have a general contractor that I found through a reputable friend.

Ideally, I would like to find a realtor that understands the market and neighborhoods I am interested in, works full time as a realtor, has a minimum of 8 years experience, specializes in working with investors, has a great reputation, and is personally invested in the same markets.

I am currently self managing my properties, but as I scale, I know that won't be a possibility at some point.  Does anyone have any recommendations on property management companies in the Northern Suburbs of Illinois ...

That way he knows you're calling his bluff but giving him one chance to move out, get some guaranteed money, and protect his reputation. 

Looking for some recommendations for my recently purchased Duplex near the Twin Cities area!

Check out the web site for Dave Ramsey to get started on fixing your credit.

Ask around your local investor meetings for names of reputable lenders, you will often find the same names mentioned, and if someone asks you for up front fees then run in the other direction.

I searched the web looking for someone else who ran into this problem, or who could decipher it.

You can see if they have what you need from their web site.