From what I see, most property management companies are understaffed for the volume or their systems are not capable of handling the volume.  

This in turn means more offers accepted, even a possibility lower $ amount in the offer.So often my listing agent gets both side of  the sale that I often think of the agents capabilities beyond just the listing. 

Explanation: We have maxed out our conventional lending capabilities and are looking for other channels for longer term financing. i.e.

However, when you start your own firm wouldn't you need to source from smaller regional and local players?

It shouldn't be hard to find who the players are.

My advice to my relative would not be to read a book, it would be to engage an agent I recommended to them, someone I trusted and knew was capable.

I think I will try and meet some of the major players in my area (the ones who have made it).

Also, maybe you need a property manager who is capable of handling more difficult personalities (with less rudeness)?  

Smith, I think your website is a good idea if the bigger players participate.  

I'm ready to use Rently once I have a vacancy, as the traditional way is very time consuming (phone calls and showings) or expensive (hiring a property manager).While I totally understand investors worrying about bad guys, and also understand the fact that when you meet someone face-to-face, you get a better feeling of who they are, but bad guys are capable of doing bad things regardless, and often times bad tenants look great face-to-face.