Chances are extremely high that the Paul Davis, Servpro's, and Service Master's, etc. in your area do program work and are not independent.If I was in your position, I'd hire 2 independent firms who are certified by the IICRC in Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT certification) but ideally, have a Master Fire & Smoke Restoration certification.

I am a CPA by day and am currently working with a start up CPA firm in my area.

If your development consist of individual housing structures, simply calling 411 may suffice.To determine the subsurface soil conditions, you will need a to involve a geotechnical engineering firm. 

My plan of action is to start attending REIA meetings in Austin, meet up with local investors, contact real estate agents, and consult with a law firm.

You will quickly learn who knows what they are doing and who is a simply a document marketing firm. 

After all the fees, he won't lose money at $470k) and held firm. 

Drama and trouble.You can be firm, friendly, and helpful but also not just throw away money simply because a tenant showed anger or other negative emotions.

And if this was the only time. 2) Ask for an Elevation Certificate  (link here if you don't know what it is)  3) try to get a DECLARATION page (same link if you don't know what it is) reason being a savvy agent can port over the rate if the seller is getting a killer rate due to government subsidies. 4) you can either shop the NFIP and private flood market to make sure you are getting the best price and best coverage. 5) make sure you are working with an agent that understands flood insurance (ask how many flood policies they have under 700 - Not an expert) 6) Google search "Lloyds of London flood insurance" know there is more than one option and you can hire a firm to shop them all or do it yourself. 7) Google search "Private flood Insurance" Know there are a great number of alternative to the government program (NFIP) and they are not all equal so again working with a flood expert could make this option a much easier option. 8) ask your loan officer or realtor if they know of anyone that really understand flood insurance and an expert agent that can make sure that the loan closing isn't delayed due to incompetence in this field. 9) let me know if I can help.

For example, termination clause typcailly makes it difficult for landlord to terminate but super simple for the management firm.

What is your involvement with the PM firms?