They have rules and best practices about how we put these deals together which has collectively saved us from much of the pain being experienced right now in the multifamily space. 

That’s the best bet. 

While it's more expensive than Ohio, it's still cheaper compared to California.Additionally, consider the practicality of traveling to your investment market.

Similarly to what Mark Cruse stated above, provide dignified housing, respect your tenants, and either have a good PM or make sure you are updated on the regulations and best practices for placing tenants.  

Is this a predatory practice by PMs?

I see you invested a serious amount of sweat equity (and real cash) into turning it into something practically new from the inside out, and it looks like it paid off in a big way.

I will sure check all available tools BP provides to learn and practice analyzing deals.

The problem with that is this:- It just doesn't make economical or practical sense for the newest housing to be the cheapest. 

I am betting 0. because anger and blame is easy.

The quicker you can take action on the high dollar value decsions the quicker you will be able to grow.For sure take the time to setup the right foundation, but keeping it simple and easy when you are getting going is a safe bet!