If a company isn't willing to be transparent with their investors, that is a massive red flag.  

All your properties may be perfect but if you are transparent about why something is not in service, it makes sense, and they agree it works just fine for long-term rentals.

I have dabbled in real estate, but never heard of brrrr before now, and transparently never did much research outside of knowing that property ownership was a way to reduce my taxable income. 

I'm pretty transparent.

I am always fully transparent and the owner in that situation is a long standing business associate that knows my character, experiences and background, strengths and weaknesses included.

Buying through an agent may provide more transparency, while sheriff sales and auctions can offer deals but often come with risks, like limited property inspection or legal complications.

However generally from working with 2-3 other PMs in the west coast, I am 100% fine paying more of a premium each month for a PM that is transparent and is able to give more time to communication.

I'm obviously biased, but I think working with a broker will speed up your learning curve.If the broker you work with isn't transparent on everything they do with you (not for you), I recommend finding another broker.

He seemed as transparent and genuine as possible.  

@Elan AdlerI appreciate the post and the transparency.