We're looking for a real estate agent and a good/reliable property management company.Thanks,

As you know one of the hardest parts of the process is finding a reliable property manager and sounds like you have found just that. 

I live an hour away from the property so I want someone reliable and trustworthy.

I would spend the time to find a lender that was personal, knowledgeable, and reliable before I would pay higher fees or interest rates. 

I just don't know what the best way to go about investing somewhere I'm not totally familiar with or have reliable/trusted connections?

Here is the breakdown35% payment history- How reliable you are, late payments kill you30% amounts owed - How much you owe and how much credit you have available.15% length of history- How long have you had credit. longer the better10% new credit- older accounts better they show reliability.10% types of credit - student loans, medical bills, credit cards, car loans

I have about 4 areas I am researching and if I can get a hint of reliable intel to warrant a visit, I am not above that.

I have been trying to find a reliable and knowledgeable agent

So you are a business period.Without a website, you are not at all credible and you can forget it.You need to get a good credible website and then do PPC /Facebook Ads, while you work on SEO.I promise you if you do this right you will hit the ground running and there truly is no faster and more reliable way to become successful.

Free, pretty reliable, and quick.