Licensed contractors have more of their "shtuff" together and thus are better at their job and naturally will cost more.

Did they find a better place, a cheaper place, a better and cheaper place?

There might be a pathway where you can hire a better PM (easier said than done) who gets better tenants and you can stabilize the property and catch your breath.

A lawyer might be able to answer this better, but most rentals fall under fair housing laws (there are exceptions) and that protects against discrimination based on familial status which means children or someone who is pregnant.

I believe you had a much better-than-average result here.

I haven't tried others, so I can't tell others are better or worse. 

MTR may be a better option if not wanting to LTR. 

Questions like this often get better and more actionable responses.Also, keep in mind that while this site is an incredible resource, opinions can sometimes come across as blunt.

But keep in mind if your using money you cant afford to get back then buying action property might not be appropriate for your current endeavors and its better to just buy open market were you can do proper due diligence and know you have a build-able site.

I think your correct though folks have to adjust to the new normal and the interest rates they are not coming down like folks hoped for I think we are in for a run of years were rates will be more like the 2000s  6 to 7% and Owner occ in the 5s with Maybe some high 4s. but by the time folks wait for that prices will rise in the better markets.