I have dealt with many attorneys over the years and I have never once been asked to pay in advance for a simple consultation. 

The agent has been communicative the whole time (something that I can say about 5% of agents in my limited experience) so I'm a fan!

Very simple.

The biggest advice I would give on this is just be patient and be very communicative with your PM.

Look for agents with experience, local market knowledge, communication style, and connections to resources.

If you received the proceeds you can't 1031 it... short and simple.   

If they did, they wouldn't be here asking questions : )  As a result, this means that CPAs, Lawyers, and Financial professionals should explain things in simple terms that are easy for people to understand (I'm not sure quoting pubs and regs directly screams simplicity, but including it as a reference is helpful for everyone). 

The question you ask sounds simple, only because most people go by “gut feel” rather than any rational thinking.  

With that in mind we are navigating the waters between two very murky districts that both want the same things, but don’t communicate between one another.

Regular meetings and smooth communication keep everyone on track, marching toward that glorious goal.So, no more flying by the seat of your pants.