However, we are taking over from a PM to self-manage and are inheriting the current setup.Our biggest concern is that this first communication from the tenant was a sob story asking for $500 back/off rent.

Do you want cheap, regardless of speed and communication? 

I'm in the metroplex/dfw so definitely good and virtually no vacancies as far as when they're turned That’s good that’s good

Rent was due by 5th but no communication on late payment and is not responding to my text/emails. 

We have virtually the exact same law in Virginia. 

Does anyone have a recommendation for a reliable, quality cleaning company with great communication?

Here is how we usually handle situations like this: if a tenant communicates with us, we usually try to work something out with the tenant. 

This was a poorly timed purchase at full retail so it likely is worse than virtually every other San Diego RE investor’s monthly appreciation. 

Should i speak with the alleged loud tenant or send communication out to all as a reminder?

I have been kicked out of every form of communication relating to this deal.