The reason AMH & Tricon fees are unacceptable is a mindset that looks less favorable on profit from residential housing than virtually any other business.  

But I'm not sure that really matters (retail vs investor)I find that the whole (retail) RE market is rigged - against the buyer and the seller and favors the agent who expects to make thousands of $$ with little 'work'. 

A lot of people are fearful right now.I'm just over the hill in Reno, NV and chose to live and invest here because our property taxes do not reassess on the sale, landlord/tenant laws are much more favorable, and there is steady job and population growth, but we're still very close to the benefits of CA. 

They have very favorable terms built into their agreements.

Have you maxed out your networking or are you the guy who everyone is always asking for favors and "a mentor" or something like that?  

Anyone know an option to get funds out of my STVRs on favorable terms? 

I've seen some less than favorable experiences posted 3 - 5 years ago.  

For them, there was very low risk, because they knew how to gauge the after-repair value and set terms in their favor. 

The minimal renovation requirements and favorable market conditions made it an attractive investment.

You will do yourself a huge favor by getting his books and utilizing his information.