Landlords mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact same services and operate the exact same way, so price is the only differentiator.So, the first question they usually ask a PMC is about fees - instead of asking about services.This also leads them to ASSUME simpler is better when it comes to management contracts.

I would push for very low or no money down but having a Realtor that needs to have their fee paid it may still not work.Look up the owner if possible through truepeoplesearch.com and call them up directly.

Especially after capex, vacancy, management fees, etc etc. 

I have found that they worked really well when it comes to getting better tenants and better rents, and having less hassle, less headaches, and then getting a higher sales price; without paying closing costs or realtor fees.

As always, make sure to run the numbers carefully and factor in local property taxes and HOA fees, which can vary widely in North Texas.Delayed gratification is key in real estate investing, but with patience, the rewards can be life-changing.Best of luck with your search

I think they're probably paid part of the signup fee.

But, there is no coaching or mentorship fee, simply analyzing every property simultaneously and ranking by cap rate. 

As far as whether to approach them with or without an agent - approaching them directly without an agent can save the seller probably 2.5-3% of fees, which give you some room to negotiate on the price, but you need to be confident that you are capable of evaluating the property value, estimating on the amount of work that is needed, knowing how to negotiate/ structure the deal, and navigating the closing process.

Quote from @Jonathan Bombaci: This year, our management company, which oversees 700+ units in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, spent over $209,000 on attorney fees, primarily related to evictions.

Instead, they get compensated by Turnkey providers or builders with a marketing fee:“…we as the turnkey property promoter gets compensated by and only by the turnkey provider or builder that we are working with, they are essentially paying a marketing fee,” ( Link ).