So I'm always able to offer a lower rates and fees and still make a decent living.

Start with a standard offer, and write a contingency into it for electricity, all the below ground utilities, and then work your way to zoning, permitting etc.

A lot of universities have students that need mid term housing due to graduation dates, mini semester programs, etc. and I've found if you approach them and offer them a solution to this problem, they are willing to work with you and help send business your way. 

I have $55K in the stock market at the moment and plan to save (and grow) the remaining in the stock market until I have enough to pay off the entire mortgage. 

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – so, they often select the first PMC they call or that calls them back!

Imagine a platform like Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, etc. where the seller can market their property while receiving assistance in offer recognition/negotiation.

It’s hit and miss, really need to deeply understand what they offer, if they will work for you or against you, whether they sign the lease or you (I prefer me, to reduce that lock jn). 

It's not normal to do it prior to an accepted offer.

Some banks even offer features that allow account holders to manage individual tenant information within one account, making the process more convenient.

This market now offers not only excellent cash flow but also strong appreciation, creating well-rounded investment opportunities.The 60 strongest housing markets heading into 2025 - Fast Company