A lot of PM firms keep contracting work in-house and do not allow outside help from owner's because of timelines, relationships, and of course potential liability.

I know was looking in a defined neighborhood and found an agent to aide in the search.

Now I am in the early stages of development.I am working with a consulting firm to help with a concept plan, engineering, and to get the city to sign off on everything.

There are local firms that will do it for you with the cost of about 1/3 the tax savings. 

Magnolia has an incredible restaurant in another part of Waco, they bought a historic hotel that they are currently renovating, they bought an actual castle in the heart of the city that they are currently renovating, they own one of the largest real estate brokerage firms in the city that continues to serve the real estate market, and they themselves own several Magnolia short term rental properties that tourists can rent nightly to have the full Magnolia experience.

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

I really do appreciate all of the comments folks have made and it’s clear that they have systems in place and I hope that knowledge will aid me in my endeavor. 

For instance, at one point when I was working as a senior accountant in a property management firm, I was training a guy who was a CPA for 30+ years even though I was hired 2 months before him.I worked only in real estate accounting and financing and became CFO.

It has obviously aided in your growth.

But in the meantime, if you aren't happy with your management company, I would suggest interviewing others until you have a firm understanding of all the facets of managing on your own.Good luck!