I knew I could use certain firms for simpler deals or deals where I knew my borrower would be more sensitive to legal fees.

If you're extremely sensitive to being sued, get a lawyer.

Hello,This post is time-sensitive as I am already in escrow, so it would help immensely if other experts in the field can provide some guidance.The property I am in escrow for is being sold by a trustee who is an attorney, as the owner has passed away.

But still...it has been like pulling teeth to get them to work with us on this stuff.

Probably not the most ideal scenario to cut your teeth on.

On the management side of things the providers PM evicted my tenant during this time without telling me and fails to take care of the mold issue which was time sensitive with the board of health

Tampa and St Pete are  sensitive to being on the right  right side of the highway and  street.

Asked for the 2 prior years tax returns, was like pulling teeth.  

Because such firms are the processing layer, and need to sign every document, cut every check and receive every deposit, this model can become cumbersome and expensive for more time-sensitive and transaction intensive investments such as direct ownership of a rental property.There are also two plan types that will provide you with Checkbook control over the funds, meaning the ability to directly transact out of a bank account of your choosing under the umbrella of the plan. 

But whether such a move is advisable is a different question (and one that is sensitive to your own personal situation).