The inspection period usually lasts 7 to 14 days.Ensure the inspector is reputable so you can trust the feedback.

Although the investor is in the drivers seat, as the borrower you should be helping to provide a good experience as reputation is everything. 

Did you ever locate a reputable property management company in the Macon area? 

Get to know people in the various trades (plumbers, electricians, carpenters, painters, siding installers.)

Quote from @Isaac Ballew: Go to indeed.com or monster.com and look for a job with a larger, reputable property management company.

Would he demand to see a card when a plumber visits?

The WORST solution is an unqualified attorney, because their mistakes makes whatever they come up with INFERIOR to an “off the shelf” solution.In between the two we have a good off the shelf product by a reputable vendor.  

My father studied to become a plumber and my mother worked in a dry cleaning shop.

Anyway;  I'm very surprised that leads that listed, expired, re put on FSBO aren't that motivated. 

Also, you can find out what work needs to be done by hiring a reputable inspector.