And not being able to issue the deposit refund via Avail was the final straw for me.

Deposit rent into checking account, transfer excess funds into brokerage account, make money. 

You can't charge extra pet rent or even a pet deposit because it's legally not considered a pet.

The claims of 1hr to collect rent, produce receipts, and deposit checks also seems like a reasonable claim if done physically and not electronically.

They can introduce themselves face-to-face with the tenants, change the locks to control the property, get a copy of the lease from the tenant or sign a new one, etc.As for the old PM, it sounds like they owe you a copy of the lease and other paperwork (required by law), undelivered rent and security deposit, etc.I would compile your documentation and file a complaint with the Ohio real estate commission.

I do not recommend paying any upfront fees, unless it's with a large bank that typically requires a good faith deposit on larger transactions.

As I understand, landlords there cannot charge application fees, security deposits and evictions are VERY challenging.Have communicated with several PMCs and investors in Ohio market and not aware of any real differences from Michigan. 

Set up a Joint account with the seller so you can make deposits to continue the automatic payments to the lender until you refinance the property.Thanks,Dustin

They are even working on getting me the evicted tenant's security deposit, the missing JANUARY rent since the place is still empty, and covering the cost of my own manager re-listing the property.

This includes preparing the property for renters, pricing it right, marketing, application screening, collecting rent, dealing with unpaid rent and other lease violations, security deposit disposition, inspections, and so much more.