I've still had some issues, but after an honest phone call with them I feel things have greatly improved. 

You need to get your name and phone number out there in front of people who might want to sell their properties quickly.Common examples are sending letters to owners of properties, for example all out of state owners in a city, or owners who are getting divorced, or landlords who recently evicted someone, etc.Also common is Google SEO advertising, Facebook campaigns, putting signs on telephone poles ("bandit signs"), putting fliers out in the community, dropping business cards in certain locations, paying for billboards or radio or TV ads, etc.At some point you will need to make a decision on whether you have (or want to spend) more time, or more money.

Like most new people to this world of REI that has listened to the PodCast or has attended a local REIA they say it takes multiple touches to get someone to pick up the phone to call you. 

Screen by phone first and don't waste time showing to people who don't meet basic income, credit, smoking, etc.

I've heard horror stories about some of the larger property management companies, they dont answer their phones and aren't there when you really need them.

I typically like to start with an initial phone call to discuss your investment goals/experiences, answer any questions you have, and tell you all about what our company has to offer.

We do group showings because there is a high no-show rate with tenant prospects, but we do prescreen on the phone to do our best to ensure those looking at the house will meet our rental criteria and timing of availability.

I have a phenomenal job, with a six figure salary that gives me huge flexibility with my scheduling, but I’m also tied down to always being on call, and always being in a company vehicle and on a company phone.

(4) Be sure to include a photo of the property with your phone number on it!

All other issues I use a database of reliable contractors which I manage via phone and text in coordination with the tenant .