Unfortunately it usually requires CYA measures which cost a lot of money.My 2 cents, hopefully helpful.

My PM is generally good, and very responsive, but I always believe there are more maintenance items on every turnover than their really need to be, and they cost a bit more than they should, but not being on-site, I have no way to verify it. 

By splitting these 2 components out, it allows me to make a realistic estimate of how much the job will truly cost. As

Most title insurance companies are escrows as well, so I do not think this should be a problem and it shouldn't cost as much as you think.Let me know how it turns out.

I have used this strategy for closing cost as well as other repairs.  

I am sure plenty of folks will tell you to get a lawyer, but that can cost a bit of money.4) Smartmove is what I have used.  

I understand the theory behind this but you want a high move in cost. A

It's totally doable, just be sure you know exactly why you're buying.I only work with turnkeys out-of-state so I don't know of any multis in that price range (since turnkeys tend to cost a little more since there's no distress), and multis for turnkeys in general are hard to find right now because cash flow in minimal to negative on good multis these days.

Having agents does cost a company more money but it also is the value that comes with it. 

It is apparent that land lease deals have the lowest upfront cost as you only have to provide the MH which can be acquired through semi-lonnie deals (somewhat a strategy of the past), or even homes that are being given away on the contingency of having them moved.