Is this a legit company? 

The owner of the lending company I work for owns 160 rental properties here in Baltimore and we understand the market very well.

I would recommend googling some companies around you that do countertops and visit them.

I work for a Property Management company and have done it for years so I am not a rookie. 

A lot of the things a mortgage company requires is to protect their financial interests (and subsequently protect you also)....getting title insurance, a survey, an assessment/inspection, and requiring home owner's insurance. 

I wanted to introduce myself and my company, Handy Central, to everyone. 

Somewhat agree, I do think there are a ton of bad PM companies out there.As a prior renter, I’ve seen my fair share of them too.  

If you aren't doing this with an LLC or other company, then the money is "still all yours" - you can freely do as you please with those funds (once the rents accrue enough for you to have a comfort level).I would suggest you contact a good accountant (CPA) knowledgeable in real estate matters to assist you with starting up your accounting system for this rental.

Do any of you have recommendations for solid:-contractors-insurance agents-attorneys-property management company-mortgage brokers?

This includes examining the structural integrity, plumbing, electrical systems, roof condition, HVAC systems, and any other significant features.Title Search: Hire a title company or attorney to perform a title search on the property.