I have identified some companies that I believe are relevant but I'm not sure how to approach them, as I am very new to real estate myself.

By having agents supporting agents in their success, it creates more collaboration and less competitiveness among agents.  

In my area title companies are making changes due to the recent uptick in wire fraud and identity theft.

Unfortunately many turnkey companies will inflate the estimated rental rate to help drive sales.

I am in talks with a reputable company that signs up proteges in commercial RE, but I am struggling a bit with their terms: the sign-up fee ranges from $10k - $40k, and a definite 50/50 profit split up to $1M mark, meaning the individual gets up to $500k, which could come from cash flow, cashout refi, sale, etc.

Here, having a pool is never negative or neutral but you can be successful without one in certain circumstances. 

The Facts of Life and Threes Company.

First, contact the water company about the leak.

I did some marketing work with them on HoltonWiseTV a few years ago, pretty legit company.

If this is a long term unfurnished rental then find another property management company with rates you're ok with.