I can't speak to the professional real estate side of your questioning but re: the "from away" bias... 

The more bedrooms you have, the more attractive the rent from furnished shared house rentals to professionals (1 per room) can be.

Our company is getting to the point where we've done a few good flips, bought some rental properties and others have noticed our success. We've established a network of private investors who are starting to invest in ...

Jackson, I am not a professional advisor,  First and foremost, Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do this. 

Out of state Investing is always a much more involved venture, but it's certainly not out of possibility as long as you are fully educated in that market, have analyzed several properties, have visited or if unable to personally visit have a real estate professional that can tour and offer you an unbiased opinion, have your financial resources in check and have a good team of people in place there, especially when you can't be.

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

This is not legal advice but I will give my professional opinion, as a property manager. 

The point is, these folks are professionals and should be considered as such.

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

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