rents are higher here by far one of the most expensive markets to live. lease price per square foots can go as high as $8 per square foot. if you live far away it'll be cheaper or you'll be living in a older unit. depends on your budget really 

Arguably, a PM company is going to have these trades available at a cheaper rate (theoretically) due to scale, but the PM company is also probably going to mark it up, so it ends up costing about the same.

Again, less does NOT = cheaper. 

I think Park 101 is an example of a development that's outrageously overpriced (I've been offered condos in the area for much cheaper) and the ROI would be too low for me but you might have a lower ROI hurdle.

For whatever reason, its not talked about enough.Also, checkout my post here of an actual example of where its cheaper to sell, then try to cash out refi:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1169308-equity-rich-need-advice?

There might be cheaper options, but it's important to remember that you often get what you pay for. 

A good umbrella policy often provides the same protection and is cheaper and easier to have. 

What I've found is that it's better and cheaper to network to find deals.

A contractors license to service appliances is not required so labor is a lot cheaper.

It will be cheaper and easier to pay them and avoid additional fees or interest.Disputing the charges is the best step.