@Calvin HaywardReal estate agents frequently provide closing presents to purchasers and vendors as a signal of gratitude and celebration of a thriving deal.

If you are using a payroll service for your employees there is likely a prefered vendor for background checks.

Remote management is definitely doable, and as you hinted at it's very important to have trusted local vendors.

@Annwar ZahriehIf you are looking at investing locally (even if it's 1.5 hrs away) try and carve out some time to go to meet-ups and meet other local investors in the Philly area and network with them and vendors. 

I am looking for vendors you use for your direct mail (postcards) to potential acquisitions.

Pricelabs is important, but right now, the most important thing is for you to spend time in Gulf Shores establishing trust and relationships with local vendors.

Hire one of VRBO's "preferred vendors" to come and shoot a NEW video of your place, and it will now be in their "Virtual Tour" section, and you now have a video again!  

You're going to have to do a lot of blocking and tackling to find good vendors.

I also would like to take advantage of Vendor Takebacks or other forms of using other peoples’ money.

Then provide them with a preferred vendor list, set up electronic locks and make the landlording a little more automated.