If other PM's charge similar rates then it sounds like they're only being competitive in that specific market (the ol' supply and demand thing...).

it maybe it may not.. if you get to arguing it in front of a trier of fact then that is the deciding factor whether it is or is not.. and If you whole business model is to tie up and assign which is what 90 plus % of wholesalers do then regulators or trier of fact may deem it a Rouse to circumvent the laws.. 

Mileage is yes for yourself as a deduction as self employment costs.. plus other costs if you have a cell phone for business, if you have office supplies, to mention a few items that you can deduct costs for. 

Again this is not in the public record.Just as importantly is the other factors that  drive supply and demand.

Investments from friends that would be provided in the form of a loan (similar to #2, but not a SDIRA) - are there any solicitation issues here that would violate securities regulations?

.❏ How much supply in the area.1) number of houses for sale.2) Number of houses sold in past 30 days.3) Divide the current list by the past list.

You need to take the time to learn all your state landlord tenant regulations.

Ask if they have any issues that you may be able to address.I treat tenants as customers and have empathy for them - give them some leverage when they fall on hard times - but be firm and let them know that this is your business and you depend on the rent to keep your operation running.There are times when you can supply the tenants with up-grades, Frig, new stove micro wave - with those items supplied you'll be able to increase their rent a little.Treat your tenants with respect - thy are your customers and their rent pays your mortgages and gives you an opportunity for a wonderful cash flow and future retirment.Cheers

Consider supplying bottles of water, granola bars, individual packets of oatmeal. 

All real estate agents log into a subdomain of MLSListings (pro.mlslistings.com) to enter and access listing information.The Silicon Valley Association of Realtors (SILVAR), Santa Clara County Association of Realtors (SCCAOR), and the San Mateo Association of Realtors (SAMCAR) control who has access to enter listing information into the multiple listing service and by setting standards of conduct, regulate real estate agents.