Here are a few key items that help us stand out from other companies. 1- We act as the bridge between landlords and tenants.

Obviously, I’d have to account for utilities and furnishings- I want those that have experience in this area and then maybe I could converse more on such items to look to before signing a contract.

expensive properties don't usually cash flow as well as mid-range properties unless you're talking about multi family.I was referring to MFH.

Had my inspections done a month or two ago and they checked about a dozen items per property that had to be corrected and told us the properties were deemed "uninhabitable" until then and no one could stay in them.

I believe these are the ones you are referring to.

Also, I've been asking most people I talk with for references and keep getting in contact with more people, all of whom have been happy to chat for a few minutes.

Be wary of front loading on the itemization/draws in the contract. 

Admittedly, pricing will often account for any major items, and I don't believe this is true in Sandy Springs, but there are some areas that an interstate cuts off a small part of the neighborhood, and so labeling the neighborhood as "good" may be true for 90% of that neighborhood, but if you are in the 10% that is on the "wrong side" of the interstate, it can be a totally different market.

This item is one of the more requested items to have in our house.

@Jason Mayer no, but I have an agent that has a few Section 8s himself who I refer my clients to for Denver/Colorado Springs.