But unless I have a trustworthy partner in that area to do the daily managing, I'd be better off staying closer to home. 

@Donell Cummings  Meeting them in person is probably the best bet.  

I think my best bet world be do this in a phased approach.

I think your best bet is to wait and see what transpires.   

It really depends on the type of contractors you're looking for and where those types of contractors tend to shop.I'm guessing it depends on the size of the area, but all the building suppliers are good bets where I am.  

I went from nothing to $10k cashflow in 2 years, I bet I can go from $10k to $40k in the next 3 or 4!

SFR might be your best bet.

 the investor from Singapore scored big when he found a trustworthy person like u. this is a light rehab. 

The price of a GOOD, TRUSTWORTHY contractor to handle the job, or at least to come in to independently inspect your contractors' work, is well worth it. 

And I'll bet he's willing to talk personally with you also.