This is both a communication and a quality example. 

-I'm fairly careful with communication , but again, I know doing business online is way riskier, but I want to ask: Typically, I would trust someone who seems very in-depth, informative (gives statistics and numbers), and basically would give me thorough steps (including worst-case scenarios and what would best fit my situation)^^would people who have experience say that even with the above, some agents/lenders/PMs would still be sort of out to get your money and do a lousy job?

I know that in written communication, concepts can sometimes be interpreted differently than originally intended.

Just communicate your decision with empathy.

I also have the text logs, since I stopped talking to him on the phone so that we would have a record of his communication with us concerning the rent.  

While it’s not uncommon for full-service managers, you might find lower rates (~10-15%) or alternative solutions like co-hosting services, especially if you handle bookings, rate adjustments, or guest communication yourself.

As for property management software, options like Hostaway or Lodgify can streamline bookings and communication.

Scheduling a few out to different units and assessing their cost, response/communication, and overall quality of work. 

From what I've heard, one of my clients hesitated at first because of the upfront cost, but within two months, she had locked in a family for six months and the rent more than made up for it.Proactive Communication: Sometimes, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

A couple years ago, someone took the pics off my Zillow rental listing and made a fraudulent Facebook listing and was communicating with prospective tenants.