You can still get a feel for contractors working with on properties you plan to hold. 

Maybe you could get your City Council members to contract with lead pipe replacement specialist contractors and just add it to your city taxes or something???

After a little while of this you can slow down and just use the one contractor you have gained a good relationship with and know their numbers on rehabs.

I just submitted plans to the city and now I'm looking for contractors/vendors. 

Check on ownership status before you get into escrow.Get multiple inspections to be able to really determine the extent of repairs.Try to align yourself with the best contractors, had good referrals, but somehow nobody stood behind their warranties.Have a good lawyer and local accounting firm.Talk to locals to see how things are done and what's happening around you.Have patience!

We had a few hiccups with the timing of contractors on site and it lead to a 4 to 6 week delay.

I can send you a list of contractors to help build your team.

Is that still the case that only W9s need to be collected from contractors that you paid with cash/checks?

Make sure it's dated and have your agent take a picture of it on the door.Then have your agent hire a locksmith to be at the property on the stated date with any necessary contractor.

I too got caught up with a very Rich Taiwanese investor and a RE developer in the states..