@Adam RossRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

If i were active though it could have a much bigger impact.

Look at crime rates, school quality, vacancy rates, and rental demand in those areas.Talk to Local Real Estate Professionals: Connect with real estate agents, property managers, and other investors who are active in the specific areas you're considering.

However, with less than 10% of realtors actively investing, it's crucial to vet them thoroughly.

They don't write books, do seminars or post on social media.

Huge cash out in the future from appreciation or active income from rentals now? 

I would be prepared to file for eviction etc. if they are 1 day late on payment, but would not actively be working to get them out if there is not a blatant current violation of the lease agreement. 

Exploring AZ, TX, OH, and FL makes a lot of sense—those markets are active, and Florida, in particular, could offer unique opportunities with properties affected by recent hurricanes.

Meetups, conferences, social media - connecting with as many people as makes sense and just discussing investing and what you do and if you found X would they be interested in investing with you.

So how do I socialize the benefit of doing something like taking a 200k ADU construction loan to add $X in top line and $Y after servicing the new note, but with an increased property value etc etc?