Getting a referral from a fellow investor is OK, however that contractor may be good for the referee, but could be not so good for someone else.Contractors are special individuals - they too are chasing the buck and trying to get the best deal possible.You may want to write specifications  of what you want done - once you know what you want you can better compare bids from workman.I have found that meeting real people with real tools at a time they are buying supplies and materials at Home Depot 5:30 - 6 am picking up stuff to do their daily work is sometimes an effective way to find the craftsman you are looking for at a price that will serve you well.Getting referrals is OK - but how do you know that they didn't over-charge the person who is referring you to them?

Google search "poorest zip code in South Carolina," pick a <$60k listing there, call the listing agent, tell her you want to write an offer but your bank won't do <$60k, ask for a lender referral. 

Often times, this can start a conversation that turns into business or a referral for you.By offering them an item of value, you eliminate the opportunity for them to slam the door in your face. 

A realtor keeps contacting me with potential tenants, what is the proper/legal way to turn them down if I don't want to give referral fee?

Does anyone in the community have any recommendations or referrals?

@Jared Bouzek Thank you for the referral!

Geoff Neidenbach hi Geoff I would love to hear your referral for a portfolio lender in St Louis as well

Bring a business card with your name and address and introduce yourself.They're going to be your best source of referrals and your first line of defense against problem tenants. 

I must see about 7 different so called guru's a day in video feeds on Facebook promoting this crap now.

Any info / referrals would be appreciated.