It is worth paying more upfront if it takes less time on site to put together.

Hello good people!
I’m brainstorming ideas on how I can market myself to potential mentors in the STR game in order to gain experience. Ideally, I’d like to become so much of value that I’d be paid for my help/ serv...

Spending a healthy % for a reliable company can make your life easier and lead to more growth as you free up your time.

You may want to make an introduction between your CPA to those 2 colleagues.The CPA can go over their services and pricing to your colleagues.I partner with many people on real estate deals - It never gets to a discussion on whether they do their own tax return or hire a professional.If a partner mentions he will provide capital - does he provide the capital on a timely manner.If a partner mentions he will find deals - does he find many deals and provide an analysisIf a partner mentions he will manage a property - does he manage the property well(find tenants, collect rent, communicate with contractors, etc)

This deal showcases the power of smart investing and timing.

I'm having a very hard time with them and on the verge of losing my earnest money on a house purchased to flip.

A typical PM for full service is around 20-30% depending on the area.Or do you mean a PM that is local to you managing your out of state STRs?

Multi-family real estate is something I am planning on doing after I graduate college and eventually full-time. 

I am working on getting the exterior painted and one of the units will need a full remodel.

Never decide on a strategy ahead of time.