You can often get better rates with a national lender, but the customer service is non-existent, communication probably sucks, they may ask for the same documents multiple times, etc.

I have read I will need to use a third party service to make this happen.  

I've heard nothing but complaints from customers AND their franchise agents reegarding the quality of their 800-number service center. 

However, he asked me to sign a one-year Exclusive Right to Represent agreement, as presented to him by his brokerage.His interpretation is that it applies only when he materially assists me, but I think the boilerplate brokerage language he was given reads much more broadly:"If during the term of this Agreement Buyer enters into a contract for the purchase of Property through the services or efforts of the Broker or Buyer’s Brokerage Firm, or by or through any other persons during the term of this Agreement" (emphasis mine).My concern is that, under my interpretation, if a fellow real estate investor wants to unload a property or if I get pointed to an opportunity by a former agent, colleague, or friend, this agreement could create an obstacle to moving forward with the deal.In the end, I didn’t sign.

I suggest using a service like Mayistay.

I am going to get legal counsel this week.

If you hire a Property Manager they can sometimes help arrange lawn and snow removal service.  

With 0% down and 30 year amortization, your monthly debt service will be $1756.

The best loan in the world, a loan that other people pay the servicing and principle for you. 

Have you reached out to any social service organizations that might be able to provide tenants to your property?