Networking with local real estate groups or online forums could help you find recommendations for PM companies that have a proven track record in Birmingham 

I've used an online designer before, you send her photos, measurements of the room and existing furniture, and your budget and she presents you with design options and the links to buy!

My local cable, internet, cell and utility companies are already using it to field calls and answer questions online and phone.

If you want to understand 5-year outlook, I'd look for multifamily construction data in your area to understand what level of new units is and will be coming online in the near future. 

You don’t even have to attend some conferences, some will publish a list of their speakers and/or attendees and you could simply reach out directly after researching their firms online.

There's also free services for tenants to pay their rent online which include some light accounting features.

I've found deals in local online groups on Facebook, simply asking people for what I want. 

@Sean Gallagher not a sales pitch, but this is what we provide for investors in Metro Detroit:)Understand that if you hire the latest & greatest PMC, many grow using poorly trained VA's. - Your portfolio will suffer:(You want a PMC that has great systems in place, including a great portal where you can keep tabs on eveything.You will also need to manage your PMC on a regular basis.

If your local municipality has an online court records, go to their website and look up both criminal and civil histories.

We have it set up where they can upload their proof on a regular basis right in their online tenant portal.