If you sign up for the free trial they will automatically charge you for a subscription (usually around $1100) and they will refuse to issue refunds or close an account.

Haha yeah this is what real estate deals usually look like for me, but awesome that you came out ahead!

Because someone looking to live in the property will pay more because it's usually an emotionally drive decision.

It's usually a very bad idea to go into business with friends or family. 

It usually doesn't cover for full replacement of your property.

I've tried the lower 6-7% PMs and usually you'll either pay mark ups on repairs (what you've noted) or pay extra fees (i.e. labor hours, extra calls) that you may or may not notice. 

No, Facebook groups are usually slow for me.

Obviously, each bears certain risks, and usually the agent would advise on these topics in the beginning.

Its not usually cut and dry so more of the story would help.

- FYI: it's only illegal to try to rent it out, the property owner can usually legally live in a nonconforming basement unit.If you do all this you may still negatively cashflow each month, so make sure your income can cover and/or your cash reserves.If you do this successfully, you will learn more in 1-2 years than you would reading here on BP for 5+ years:)Good luck:)