I believe it was just a flat rate per property per month, and quite inexpensive.

I did learn a lot and was inspired, but rubber hit the road and I ran flat *** out of money. 

I've seen property managers charge a % or flat fee to do project management or coordinating multiple vendors for say a make ready repair turn.

I'd think it's odd for a contractor to ask you to cover their fees for licensing, they should just build that into their bid.Typically for smaller contractors doing windows and doors or re-roofs we've seen them add a permit fee which covers our services the cost of the permit and also most of the time puts money back in their pocket.

My experience, in 2016 I bought a 2 flat in Chicago to rehab from MotivatedLeads.com

To make things even more complicated, I could possibly have roof issues, which means more $$ spent that I won't earn.

This is not only to make sure that people are taking care of the property, but this is also to make sure that tenants aren't overlooking issues that could be addressed now that cost way more later.These can be minor roof leaks, gutter leaks, mostly to do with water penetration.

The roof was replaced this year and the Central Heat and Air unit was replaced within the last 3 years. 

You just need to shop around more and take care of the big items, like the roof, if needed.

-You'd also want to understand what kind of capex issues you are inheriting....does the roof need done?