I want to hear some stories on how other people got started and how easy/difficult it was.

If they have an legally binding agreement, you need to honor that agreement and pay the fee.If you failed to mention to the agent that they are going to get paid, and then explained how, of course they won't present the offer.

The problem is mainly a concern for people with a net worth or reasonable income. 

I'm certain there are plenty of people in the community willing to help. 

I provide houses for people that might not get other opportunities.

We are the kind of people who do not jump into anything without fully planning it out.

Which is not easy for possible for many people (like your husband).Once you really know what to do, the risk level drastically reduces.

You cant view a lot of FL probate dosuments directly from the recorders site but you can get the key people (petitioner/decedent) then combine with the case type (summary vs formal probate admin) then look through property records to see if  they own property and whether there are encumbrances.

I am obviously conflicted with the moral side of pursuing legal action here, but understand that people can do untruthful things when it comes to financial gains. 

So, many people in your area may not realize its negotiable and just assume its always handled a certain way.