If you aren't comfortable with that person, find someone else. 

It really boils down to what YOU're most comfortable with.

Yes I do believe they are a scam, more I read about them the less I feel comfortable. 

Get out of your comfort zone.

It's mostly out of your control, but at least make 1 room comfortable.

Yes, I think our goal is at least break even right now, and hopefully in a few years the rents will be higher and the property will have appreciated well.I think that’s great advice to think long term, which is what we would be most comfortable with.  

It all just depends on your level of comfort and strategy.  

The unit should be able to get into the 80's. 80 degrees during the day seems comfortable to me.

Then from there you'll get comfortable with the area, contractors, PM's,etc.

Of course with this being in the family, negotiation is whatever the two of you feel comfortable about with.