Those who have done this multiple times already have thought of the gotchas and will likely save you money even if their hourly is significantly higher.  

. $100 is WAY too low and they will be losing money when finding a tenant.

Taking the bookings directly can net you more money, take power away from the platforms to issue refunds, and protect you from other platform issues.Once you are set up with the site I recommend making a new forum post about ideas how to increase your conversions. 

-fork over money I dont really have and remedy the knob and tube?

I'm finding that a lot of real estate agencies also own rental properties/invest their own money.

I've already paid for and attended the inspection last week as well as paid earnest money so I'm currently $2000 into the deal.

However if they do and they have an attorney, you very well might lose and learn some lessons from the opposing counsel or the JP or both. 

I sent her money up front in good faith to get work started.

Burn your money.

You've already got units making you money, utilize that extra land to make yourself more money with very low risk.1.