In my opinion, maintenance markups do not align incentives of the property management company with the owner client.

At the national level, it's the best of the worst in that industry - a lot left to be desired in the customer service department but still better than doing it on your own.

This was after I left 23 real estate seminars without signing up for any of them. 

You left out the deception that they claimed they NEVER miss interest/principal payments.

I am left to wonder, though some investors with SFR's are doing it successfully, is the risk too high for the reward?

That actually better aligns with our needs. 

I would love to maximize cash flow but also do not want to be left on an island if there is damage. 

I have left to a competitor. 

This stark contrast leads me to question the legitimacy of the program and its purported benefits.In conclusion, my experience with James' mentorship program, particularly through the actions of Kristin Witherspoon, has left me disillusioned and skeptical.

However, if you can identify a reinvestment opportunity that offers significantly better returns or aligns with your goals, selling through a 1031 exchange could make sense.