On the other side of the spectrum you have the investors posting in these forums about the contractor who walk off the job and shares how they hired them to do a SFR gut reno with updating mechanicals, new roof etc. for $45k and is wondering why they are running into issues. 

BTW: most owners that have hired a PMC, don't want to speak with you, much less meet with you in person to hear a hyped-up sales pitch.Also, you want to do rental arbitrage - so, you will need to be properly licensed to manage properties you do not own as required by your state & local laws.- why would an owner want to do business with someone NOT properly licensed?

I am also a remotely managing 12 of my own Section 8 units in Iowa so know the rollercoaster of emotions of to hire or not.

Could I instead hire foundation repair and soil stabilization services to prevent foundation issues?

Look for brokerages that cater to investors or offer minimal oversight plans, such as virtual or flat-fee brokerages.

If you have a 1099 with someone and hire them you should be paying them unless your agreement and contract is with the church. 

However, if the FHA interest rate is lower, I would still go that route and if rates drop refinance  however keep in mind FHA has PMI for life  Here you go FHA has the self sustaining requirement that requires the three non owner occupied  units to cover the entire PITI which with 3.5% or 5% down is virtually impossible with today's interest rates and price level.

He negotiated a $5k discount on the purchase price, and I moved forward with the deal.Fast forward to now - after seeing water in the basement, I hired a professional to inspect it, and the news was not great.

Support - I hired an RE attorney @ $350 hourly.

You might hire a property manager, use a co-hosting service, or build your own team (like I did!).