Get to Know a Local

Even if you need to do your research remotely, try and make some sort of contact with a "local." In many areas, particularly rural and out-of-the-way ones, there may a local person or two who are very familiar with local families and local records. They may be able to give you specific guidance that someone unfamiliar with the specific area (even a professional) may not. And, as a local person, they may have an easier time accessing records.