I am a Carpenter by trade, my passion for construction and renovation led me into becoming a Real Estate Broker as well.

I can't find any relevant trades within 30 miles in determining a fairly accurate cap rate to work with. 

@Ralph Justiz As @Tony Castronovo said W2 incoming is blessing for our skill set we acquired from our hard earned degree/education. 

If your rentals rise to the level of a trade or business per IRC 162 (which, most do) you qualify for both. 

Your original post/inquiry proves your analysis skills are thorough so you'll figure out what works, no doubt.

If you hire someone, you want them to be somewhat skilled in sales and have scripts for them.

All of these skills can be developed.

A good HML has more money at risk than you do so wants you to use QUALIFIED trades. 

There are some highly skilled professionals here on the forums that work with real estate investors in all 50 states.

I have listened to thousands of hours of BP podcasts (as well as others) and audio books on the various forms of investing.I am "that guy" with 800+ credit, what I believe to be more than adequate knowledge, great communication skills, a real estate sales background, and very little REI experience.I'm anxious to find a great Core 4 (Lenders, Deal Finders, Contractors, Property Managers) and start a successful buy-and-hold REI career, locally and/or long distance.