@Dan Green What are you looking for duplexes, triplexes quads, more than five unitsI would contact a realtor let them know exactly what you want and build a relationship with a few realtors You might want to attend a few BiggerPockets Webinars.

My husband and I don't use a property management company; we have a contractor in FL (we're in NJ) that handles all repairs and showings/walkthroughs, and I handle all tenant relationships, accounting, vendor billing, advertising, legal, etc.

To do it right, you have to do it professionally and be mentored by professionals.If your goal is to buy, fix and hold for rental income or even buy fix and flip (which is also a job), you might consider partnering or developing a business relationship with wholesaler rather than trying to do it yourself. 

How do you cultivate good working relationships with contractors remotely across different regions?

Hello, I am here to build good business relationships and to learn.

Build a relationship with them and when a property like this comes up- use their resources to close on it.

Then contact those attorneys and set up time to interview them and let know that you are looking for someone that is a good fit for you and your business and looking for a long term relationship. 

Pa SWIF has you fill out a questionnaire to establish the relationship between you and the contractor. 

This will allow you to connect with folks who know the areas you want to invest well and allow you to develop a relationship with them to obtain private lenders. 

PIC give real estate investors the opportunities to share information and connect and build long lasting business relationships.