I work with 4 electricians , 3 plumbers , 4 HVAC , 5 or 6 framers , if 1 is busy I use another . 

If they work independently, set their schedule, and use their resources, they might qualify as a 1099 contractor, but misclassification risks IRS penalties.Wages for W-2 employees and payments to 1099 contractors are both deductible business expenses, but compliance is key.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Florida should be busy currently with people staying in the Winter to get away from the cold & snow. 

Just don't forget that this is a cashflow business more than an investment.

We just love the country and plan to visit often and figured why not expand our business into Japan.

Self management works if you are local and can separate emotion from business.

It forces me to get real familiar with my business and how my properties are performing.

The wife and I are starting a real estate investing business.

I have a commitment to invest in rental properties, meet professionals  & eventually meet potential business partners!

Don't apologize, don't explain how the 'chosen' tenant was more qualified than they were, wish them well in their search.You're running a business and you've made a business decision.