You might also meet title agents who have resources on, say, foreclosures or probates…and might recommend lenders who actually lend on more difficult projects (as the title companies also know which lenders can close and which are difficult).I also go visit open houses to see what sorts of finish to put on my renovations or to look for the next house or area in which to purchase.  

I'll send you a DM on a recommendation for a law firm a lot of our clients use.

@Noah Wright thanks for the great info, you have a sample template which you recommend?

There seems to be a bit of hostility here from the contractors, and this was really just a question so I could better understand and more easily work with contractors.This question was for a first-time encounter with a new contractor not recommended to me by anyone I know.I am happy to give weekly checks for progress, purchase all materials upfront including all the fittings, nails, caulk, and whatever else the contractor chooses.

@Denise Lang - would NOT recommend my local market right now unless you can source it off-market. 

Rare do I hear of recommendations but I do hear people asking.I would think in any big city you think about, a visit to a local NARPEM meeting or 2-3 visits would be a great idea. 

Quote from @Sunil Ghosal: Would not recommend the East TN region to anyone right now.

In practice, this could mean 5 extra days that no rent is collected.  

A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.You may want to consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for a accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

I would recommend reaching out to @Denver McClure as he may be able to help with a non-conventional loan