I wish we could see statistics on how many of rhe people lost their shirts trying to rent other peoples houses.

One of these (Bolded) things can be a logical argument for hiring him, but not both.If straight up hiring this person is so expensive that you're concerned about it, but you think he'll make more money taking a share of the profit (to his benefit), then you have a straightforward math problem that you need to sort out for yourself.

Seeing you as a statistic would be a tragedy.  

So if I may be so bold as to ask what is a note investor?

Also, FSBO properties can be a good source of leads that may require minimal upgrades to increase value, and since these owners do not work with professional representation, it has been statistically shown you will be able to get sizable concessions on price, in addition to leveraging the outdated condition of the property, it may result in a significantly discounted purchase price in the right situation.

(BOLD are strongest leanings) We WERE looking at Naples / Marco Island but think it might be too built up in Naples (busy), and possible too far removed in Marco Island (???).

As it relates to individuals, statistically in my experience, landlords with 'good experiences' with applicants tend to respond (albeit delayed at times) and otherwise they rarely do.  

@Megan LansdellI have a BBA in marketing, and to be honest with you, most of it is pretty common sense unless you want to focus on the more technical stuff like market research and statistics. 

4) what are the crime statistics?

I have not ever called someone in that situation...they might be a little put off..but if you're that bold, maybe go for it.