I still have a hard time understanding how this business model works for them, but perhaps that upfront fee covers for lack of deal flow (?) 

Would that lower our tax liability from other income we receive or no because this is purely RE and not an operating business?

Working in a busy property management company, I'm often asked for advice on camera and alarm systems, and in rougher neighborhoods sometimes it can be a toss-up on whether to keep a property boarded-up between showings. 

We are a small partnership with 4-5 properties currently, but we are growing and hoping to find a reliable lending partner that we can do repeat business with.About 3 months ago, we successfully completed a BRRRR deal where we had excellent numbers, over a 1.25 ratio at 75% LTV, our guarantor partner has an 800+ credit score, and we had no issues qualifying for the loan.

In return for excellent service I'll be offering repeat business and I'll happily provide referrals to my existing investor network for those top performers. 

We have worked hard to build up our systems to manage our business.

I'm a Ny'er and own a wholesaling business in the Milwaukee Market. 

Quickly I learned I knew nothing about the business of trucking and truly didn't enjoy it, as all those gains got depleted.

Trustin your PM partner is important and they will follow your lead, so don't expect them to provide you with your business plan. 

FHA loans are designed for primary residences and require the borrower to be an individual, not a business entity.