You're so right about preventing beginner mistakes...the syndication world is one where you really get one shot to make it as your reputation with your investors depends on it!  

For contractors, I'm looking to locate reputable full service and specialty (plumbing, electrical, etc.) companies.  

Mine can set door codes, message (or call) guests, schedule cleaners, adjust the thermostat, monitor my cameras, & call a plumber just as easily as a local PM can, for 1% of the cost.Hire good cleaners, a solid handyman & befriend some helpful neighbors.

We build approx. 20 homes per year, and are working to establish relationships with reputable nearby vendors.Specifically, we are having difficulty finding the following trades:- Exterior siding installers- Brick installers - Plumbers- FramersWould love to share resources with someone else building similar product ($1M to $3M range) for subcontractor pool, pricing expectations (e.g. $/1000-brick for install, $/SF for framing, etc), etc. specific to this region.

The key is to find a reputable one. 

If you could afford a $400k property in Boston... would you stick to a studio apartment in a good area of Boston or go to some of the cheaper areas where there are longer commutes and more of a reputation for crime?

A reputable company sells you the home fully renovated and provides professional property management.

These are usually small lenders.Suggest you find another lender LOCAL to you with a good reputation from other borrowers in your area.  

On the tenant background information however, you should at least be provided with the lease and the names of your tenants however, we nor most reputable PM's will share sensitive tenant background or contact information with owners.

*Update*After seeing the home inspection report, the seller sent out an electrician and plumber to take a look at the issues listd.