Or dealing with some higher level staff issues (ones that might involve my operations mangers) . 

With that said, I'm steadily defining a good system I'll trust and staff to hand off to once I hit about 50.To each their own.

Because we were there they thought they had full time service staff.

Discuss with them what level of involvement/control you want.They can help you set up your listing and get you started, they can handle the turn overs and cleaning staff, restocking, communication with guests, whatever you need, while you're learning this new business.

Having in house maintenance staff or even a separate renovations company is not illegal.That said, it should have been disclosed along with any markup that is going to be charged.As for the legality of what he is charging you it would depend on what he has disclosed to you. 

A professional turnkey operator, acquires, develops or redevelops, warranty, leases up and provides property management to his clients worldwide.

I've come to the conclusion that the large apartment complexes must be charging higher monthly rent to make up for the small security deposits, and perhaps they have the time and the staff to aggressively pursue someone in court if they cause serious damage to the unit.

What I would be doing is contacting warm leads and setting up showings after that simply referring the prospect to the office staff.

Caplan Law Group and Shaheen Law Firm both have litigation attorneys on staff that could help. 

You are running a business and they are part of your staff, so a little face time goes a long way.