There is usually a higher business cost to use those experienced contractors who are properly insured and have a great track record.One of the few times I see investors get a great rate and high quality work is if either they employ the contractor directly so their jobs are the sole focus or they do lots of volume to give a contractor team consistent work.It sounds like you are playing in the one off space with an non-certified contractor hours away from where you are.

Calling prior landlords, verifying employment etc.. 

I know nurses employed at state run prisons who are state employees.

So it’s a very diversified base of large employers to think one employer makes or breaks RE.

The best thing you can do, is just a good employer and keep them on track, keep checking up on the progress, be quick on any questions or concerns that come up.

@Monica Young@Michael SeekerI think that depends on the lender and the employer.

The buildings where I am looking to employ this strategy are typically difficult to sell so it gives me some leverage with a seller.  

We are both employed full time. 

I was a bit naive on some things and as I had shared with someone offline I dont know that I'd have been brave enough to take the leap to this business had my former employer at my W2 job made my life so miserable I hit rock bottom...so I have to give kudos to them for kicking me in the butt and throwing me over the cliff.  

It can help you create a short listPopulation growth, employment growth, wage growth, composition of business types are the most important factors in the health of the market.