I wouldn't recommend a new build home for rental purposes.

I recommend at least every six months, but would prefer you inspect every 3-4 months and be prepared to hold them accountable if there is even the slightest hint of damage or odor.People with strong applications and good credit tend to be responsible pet owners.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

My only recommendation is to re-read @Nathan Gesner recommendation. 

Look for people that have owned for over 10 years, and get it from them off market even at a deep discount and do the work of fixing it up and renting it for higher, or if you want to buy on market I'd definitely recommend offering below asking, as most multifamily that hits the market in these areas are tremendously over priced. 

Pricing and rates change constantly so if you are seeking cash out of a rental property you can entertain a second DSCR equity loan up to 70CLTV to keep your first in place or take a look at a full new cash-out option.

Alternatively, does anyone have any recommendations on books or podcasts specific to Canadian Real Estate Investing?

Any recommendations for decent property managers will be greatly appreciated.

These sellers typically want a fast sale to move on with their lives and avoid ongoing conflicts.Relocating SellersPeople who need to relocate for a new job, military deployment, or other personal reasons often seek a quick sale to avoid the burden of managing a long-distance property.Inherited PropertiesHeirs who inherit a property they don't want to maintain or manage may be eager to sell quickly.

I'd recommend actually looking at the top performing asset classes in your market. define the market you want to do.