Hey Jonathan - I usually start by checking what similar properties are charging in the area, considering things like size, amenities, and location.

It may sound nice to pay a 6% management fee but the extra fees can add up to be more than the other company that charges 10% with no additional fees.

If they are taking the risk of borrowing they would want to charge you a premium for the risk they are taking. 

.- Cities like Toronto will levy another tax (Vacant Home tax) equivalent to 1% of the current assessed value of the property if the property is not occupied (rented, owner-occupied, family occupied, all count as occupied)- Land Transfer Tax: while the Province of Ontario charges anywhere between 0.5 - 2% of Land Transfer Tax when your transaction closes, you should expect to pay this amount twice if the property is in the City of Toronto .

I'll keep it fully furnished, so I can potentially charge more, especially since it’s also near a major hospital in Astoria and close to LGA.Do you think this plan is feasible?

Generally they are not rolled into the loan, and it's more the level of fees (say the percentage) they charge rather than any "junk" fees or costs.

I paid for a lifetime membership and then still got charged. 

I am currently located in The Bay Area, California and I am little nervous about  investing out of state but I thought I would give other cheaper markets a shot other than my backyard which is expensive.

I am trying to find a real estate attorney in Macoupin County, IL as my attorney is about 3 hours away and told me that it will much cheaper to go with a local attorney.

Beware most property management companies charge between 15-25% of gross revenue, which makes it harder to be profitable.