(and there are lots of people here to offer advice!)

I never understand why people in business think anonymity is good. 

I can look back and question my decision to go with him based on a number of warning signs, but we know some of the same people and our trusted friend referred him to us.

People have mixed opinions on this, but in one market I invest in, I researched and interviewed dozens of companies and went through 3 before ultimately confirming that there really was nothing which would suit my needs. 

Welcome to BP and thanks for sharing your plans, there are a lot of people in a similar position who will feel inspired.

Attend meetups and meet as many people in RE as you can.

Sometimes, the most honest answers come from people who have no stake in whether you buy the property or not.Good luck!

You can either cancel and they may reduce the fee to try to save the deal or take the hit and leave a foul review so people know of this bad practice 

People need homes.

The problem with rent by the room is you end up becoming a counselor or a people manager.