Do I have to wait a couple years so I can demonstrate more clearly that I do indeed have a sustainable business model, or does having continuous income whether it's from my own income or from a regular W-2 job count?

. $10 is not a sufficient financial interest in a $100,000 property, it would be for a $50.00 item, and this is dictated by what is acceptable. 

Clearly if they are billing you for items that conflict with the management contract, you have a problem.  

I think the items your probably worried about are the items the title company takes care of.  

When addressing the loan costs there will be a few items to cover but it depends on lender/loan type.

--Is there a support-approach the founders/managers just modeled so well, everyone else just followed?

Lay out the issue, lay out the solve and delegate the action items to your team- whether it's your RE team or corporate world team or family. - Even though I feel like yelling and punching some folks at times, I know sweet is better than sour. - Bottom line - as I approach 40, I deal with life and obstacles as if I have no time for BS (I don't).

I have been looking at similar type properties in Tarrant county region and putting your numbers into my model I am coming far short of your returns.  

I plan to network to find a lender in my area who will sit down with me and discuss the items you shared with me.

@Devin Mann give them an Item of Value.