This indicates a strong and healthy market, where property values are appreciating steadily.Dollar Volume: An impressive 26.3% increase in dollar volume reflects the overall growth in the market, soaring from $793,424,108 to $1,001,865,280.

Nothing in your story indicates they are liars.

A few important things I would be looking for:1) the experience and credentials of the broker who supervises the company as well as the lead property manager2) the services they offer and how they line up with your needs and expectations3) the use of technology to make their job and yours easier 4) if they have a landlord-tenant attorney on retainer to help guide them on legal issues (not to mention the creation of lease agreement, landlord forms and notices, etc.)5) their process and policy for a) listing, b) application, c) tenant selection, d) routine inspections, e) maintenance services, f) property and tenancy update reports to you, g) lease enforcement policy, and f) move-out process.6) property owner reviews (you can't always rely on Google reviews, because they may not reflect actual quality of the company, but still) 7) beneficial programs for both owner and tenant 8) a property management agreement that would indicate they know what they're doing and have the experience to know what matters in a PMA.

Rental Demand:While Plano has traditionally been a strong rental market, recent data might indicate some softening.

And to make this process more efficient, we must stay abreast of design trends, workplace innovations, and ergonomic solutions that can enhance the functionality and appeal of our commercial properties.Updating Yourself with Economic Conditions and Political Changes: Stay informed about macroeconomic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, inflation, and interest rates, as these factors can impact overall market stability and investor sentiment.

I just received a letter stating that the only option they would offer me is a short-sale and that I was not eligible for a forbearance since I indicated I was interested in selling the home. 

If you're in contact with the owner/seller directly, and you don't feel there is a lot of competition (off-market), might as well start with an LOI to lay out terms before drafting a contract.If you need the offer to look compelling because other buyers are circling, a PSA would indicate more motivation on your part.

If the AC is not working you will need an HVAC company to come out and tell if it's fixable or needs to be replaced.To be honest, everything you are saying indicates you are going to create a money pit for yourself.

This indicates a demand for smaller, more affordable housing suitable for singles or young couples, which are typically quicker to flip due to higher demand from first-time homebuyers or renters.

Just to add on to my last comment...Ask the contractor to redo the estimate with more detail and if he/she balks or stalls then find another contractor...that is a bad indicator for the $37K job he/she has ahead of them!