I started with Virtual Assistant and gained knowledge about different categories of Real estate and now I am running my own Real estate VA services team.

The person you spoke with may be referencing earnest money deposit (buyer showing the seller they have skin in the game; this can be refundable or non refundable).Some lenders require an application fee (junk fee) and those lenders typically are more expensive to begin with.

My property manager immediately began the eviction process using a highly reputable eviction service.

I feel like it's a way to keep people on the platform and appeasing hosts, instead of offering more supportive customer service. 

Then around the 10th you would receive the rents they received minus any charges for heir services, repairs, etc. 

Can they send you something in WRITING explaining HOW they will advertise your property, screen applicants and handle maintenance?

My policy is that the approved applicant has 24 hours to pay the deposit in full and with certified funds.

Also, I previously used Guesty and wasn't happy with their service.

In addition, if anyone has spreadsheets or services they highly recommend for beginners.

Marketing, overhead, operations, what have you, this could be baked into your rate, furthermore, your lender is most likely not even providing the capital to fund the loan nor will they service it unless they are a credit union or the type of lender that does service it.