Read some books, preferably those written prior to 2015 when YouTube gurus started telling everyone how easy it is to buy 17 houses a year with no money down.Investing is pretty simple if you just follow the process investors were using since the beginning of time.

B) Would prefer to install curtain rods now over blinds for most windows.

You may be profitable, but I'd prefer to avoid the possibility of having to do unnecessary repairs or not holding my tenants accountable for damage when I know their actions might have caused any unforeseen damage. 

Since I am having my prospective tenants cover the cost I would prefer to have the lowest cost option that gives you the most bang for your buck, but at the same time I want to be sure that what I am paying for is reliable.

I prefer a balance between cash flow and capital appreciation.  

I prefer a more realistic and strategic approach.

Looking to get into flipping projects preferably in the western suburbs

They often have a list of preferred housing providers they work with.

My husband (slash business partner/travel partner/coworker etc) prefers to avoid condos and townhomes due to the slower appreciation.

If you prefer to be hands-off with full-service management, then I'd plan on paying around 20% commission as that's pretty common.