.), a good property manager would also have strong connections with good, trustworthy, and AVAILABLE contractors that would be easy to get in touch with, and would show up and do their job as expected, on time, and (hopefully) within budget.

Trustworthy property managers and contractors are few and far between, so when you find them, treat them right and keep them happy.

But to be frank, CA's trajectory is impossible to replicate as working remote has become more prevalent, companies more “decentralized”, and more people think about not just professions, but also lifestyles these days).Are you able to find trustworthy realtors/PMs or even service providers?

I am looking for some insights of what criteria or questions to ask to make sure your hire a contractor that is trustworthy and reliable?

Can someone suggest a trustworthy and competent cost segregation study service that have a good track record of helping short term property owners to maximize tax deduction?

See if the most trustworthy renter is interested in taking on some responsibility for a reduced rent. 

lol  Nothing personal, but the Investors that we work with, know that WE are trustworthy, do a GREAT job, and we are very fair on pricing. 

@Jerry Booker, as mentioned above, 203k, Conventional Homestyle/Choice reno options, and most any renovation loan is going to be nuanced and require a host of experienced and trustworthy people around you to guide you to the finish line, otherwise it can be a rough journey. 

Answering questions for yourself about the like-ability and trust worthiness of the people you will rely on to help you make good investments in that city.

@Greg KoszkulI think experience and developing a team that is reliable/trustworthy in an out of state market is much harder to develop.