@Robert Tucker, if your looking for topics to blog about, I would suggest writing about how to use PM & HM properly and creatively.

This situation accelerates it and it appears they may realize it as I am seeing 10% maintenance charges for coordination which have never been present.

I am looking to make connections in the NYC/NJ area and start making the proper moves to own my first building by end of year (probably looking to buy a duplex)!

Doing proper due diligence on even just a single deal takes time.

My advice would be to get the insurance, form a company and get the proper licensing from your local jurisdiction.

@Leon Lee it could be that they made an adjustment that they didn't have a line item for, or the comps were weak ie they were in a different neighborhood and your property was hard to value with proper comps but they had to do the best they could. 

IT was first experience with hard money lending, negotiating as an investor, coordinating with multiple subcontractors.

changes the equation quite a bit.Also, you aren't figuring out your expenses properly. it is not as simple as saying "mortgage is x, rent is y, so cash flow is Y minus X." what happens when the place sits empty for a month?

Typically speaking, a triplex or 4plex will show a better return in this area and you will carry less risk through ownership of a 3-4plex because you can better coordinate lease structure to ensure timing works in your favor.

If you have all the proper information to take him to small claims it is likely the best route for any chance of getting your money back.