How will this effect us homeowners and investors?

@Sam Shueh - I didn't read the docket but if 2 different sales persons were involved, even under the same broker, isn't this a designated agency, not a dual agency?  

It's much more effective for any lead to build rapport.Hope this helps Jon

The purchase price does not directly effect the assessed value unless the assessors office takes it into consideration.  

I'm orginally from the valley (Brownsville) and worked in Harlingen as an architectural designer.

I also have an undergrad degree in architecture.The real estate investment field is something that has always mesmerized me, and I'm finally ready to dedicate myself fully to this endeavor.I wish all the readers the best of luck in all future endeavors, and if any of you need input from a design or project perspective please don't hesitate to ask.

Is there another option that is more cost effective?  

I wrote the book and designed it as a step-by-step guide...

As for the professional service fees, those appear to be in line with what our development side pays for the design fees of a project.

I don't know the laws about a deposit limits...that's why we hired and pay a property manager :) The pm is a licensed Realtor and actually the broker/ owner of a local company and manages several other properties.I've gotten some new info about the situation and no longer  think he may be trying to keep the deposit from us....it really never was collected (there are emails between pm and tenants to this effect).HOWEVER we were never notified about this.