I need help but am trying to decide the best strategic staffing move.

The first homes were sold here in 1975, carved out of the Santa Monica Mountains into a dozen aspirationally named gated communities like Enclave and Summit, which are technically located in the city of Los Angeles — but about two miles of wilderness away from anything else.

Technically, it could turn out not so well as the agent could be entitled to both side of the transaction as a dual agent, receiving both the listing and purchasing commission- actually standing to make more in some cases (the full commission and not the split commission), in some scenarios without being the 'procuring cause' of the sale. 

(Right now, there are more real estate agents than there are properties available if you can believe that.)Now, your right that THEY cannot split commissions (technically, you can split with them but they can't split with you.)

I recently attempted to do a cash-out refi expecting to benefit from the much-improved income, but the appraisal did not go as expected.Because the building is 2 units and technically residential, the appraisal came back at $520k using the market value evaluation.

., I agree most with those that say you can technically go in with "no money down", but as Taylor mentioned, "no money down" doesn't mean you don't need money.  

My expertise was technical things like plumbing and electrical.

Then the staffing, finding tenants, utilities would be on them.

Of course, there's the usual chemistry and personality matching as well - I'm quite technical and love asking lots of questions so obviously someone who supports that would be ideal.

Also as a Follow Up question; Is there any reason not to get the keys from them and change the locks after the move out inspection even though they are still technically paying the lease?