It doesn’t make sense for them to come out and give you 10 estimates if your not going to work with them.Always visit a current work site, make sure they communicate, respond quickly, and you get along with them.

Do they have a communication plan?

You can probably find a copy online

In my area, I can find MLS rental leases on line or talk to a real estate agent and have them send you one.  

I have found tons of these deals online but when we sit down and hash things out . the sellers terms are often ridiculous and can’t be negotiated.

I use QuickBooks Online and can produce that and many other reports at a moment’s notice (second important one is profit and loss).

Also, is online banking a viable alternative?

Continue as normal, no special communications and let the tenant transition to a month to month lease.

These properties are not under contract by me - is it bad for me to put the buyer in direct communication with the contract holder, or should I "gate keep" all conversations? 

It is largely all done online.