Play dumb, ask questions, and try to gain as much info as possible before choosing a contractor. 

Hire a contractor to cut open the ceiling so it can dry out.

You may want to make an introduction between your CPA to those 2 colleagues.The CPA can go over their services and pricing to your colleagues.I partner with many people on real estate deals - It never gets to a discussion on whether they do their own tax return or hire a professional.If a partner mentions he will provide capital - does he provide the capital on a timely manner.If a partner mentions he will find deals - does he find many deals and provide an analysisIf a partner mentions he will manage a property - does he manage the property well(find tenants, collect rent, communicate with contractors, etc)

The furthest properties are the hardest to deal with because my contractors don’t want to travel that far due to their time wasted driving and the cost of gas for their big trucks.

I'm starting my first deal and got on the call with the agent and ended it with a deal with me making almost 5k but after this idk what to do, we haven't signed a contract or anything but getting to and and I just need someone to be by my side for this, I'll throw you some of what im making somehow but I just really Need help

I have two options 6.625% 30 year or 6.15% 15 yearI want to invest aggressively in the near future on more propertiesThe loan is only $110k and the monthly payment for 15 year is $563 and $750I will earn 2-3k a month in gross rental revenueThe property is in a declining population areaRecently rennovated, and all major things were relatively recently improved such as plumbing, the roof, a/c, electric, etc.Will require a lot of management as it is rent by the room so I may switch to a normal rental after 10 yearsI'm trying to find what will mathematically net me the most money in the long run.

Learning how to use the correct tools and materials for a job, YouTube videos and even ChatGPT will help you get through 80% of the problems you will run into.My rule was I would not mess with HVAC, plumbing and electrical Or if it would take more than a few hours. 

. - So, that leaves electric & gas.

@Alan Mills You mention contractors not keeping a time line , not General Contractor . 

They can also guide you in choosing properties that appeal to dependable tenant demographics.Access to Reliable VendorsProperty managers have established networks of cost-effective contractors for renovations and repairs.