Maybe meet a contractor who is also an investor.

Any one know a trust worthy contractor in kansas city missouri?

Contractors are busy and  in short supply and prices are up .  

With that mindset, it doesn't bug you as much when the first few contractors don't show and you'll be able to weather the storms.

I am in a process trying to have a better way to manage the two properties, so I am working to gather the list of reliable contractors, landscape companies, electrician, HVAC, plumbers, snow plowing, roofing company.

If a contractor or someone who knows a lot about repairing houses and prices could look over it, it would me VERY much appreciated.

I'm thinking for a purchase where I live I would need to do a renovation loan (though in this competitive market it would be difficult to get under contract) or use hard money and then refi out of it post rehab.

@Jesse Harris You sit fat and happy and enjoy what you got...

The agent, lender, insurance agent and contractor are also important, but are (in many ways) much easier to come by. 

I met many interesting investors and enjoyed the networking.