I had to pay for an appraisal on both properties as not all their properties work for the implied value system they use.

Are the rents controlled or are they the right price. 

The price you were quoted is 1) a HUGE spread so something fishy is going on 2) a new system for a house 1,400 sq ft would only run about $8,000 with completely brand new duct work on the entire house, new compressor, and new furnace.

My monthly sewage, water, garbage removal, insurance, and pest control is around $450/month Once the third unit is rented, my numbers will be even better!

However, the agent didn’t control the insurance company, and they, for whatever reason, didn’t allow the claim.

My point was that your experience supports my observation in the sense that I think they are trying to be "market makers" and sort of control prices. 

That doesn't last long because you end up with hours a day you are not selling and just helping others sell.I would recommend talking to other agents in the area and see what kind of support systems are available.

For purposes of the definition: • Gross receipts are reduced by returns and allowances made during the tax year, • An employee is considered full time if employed at least 30 hours per week for 20 or more calendar weeks in the tax year, and • All members of the same controlled group and all persons under common control generally are considered to be one person—see section 44(d)(2).

It might not sound like much but my entire smart home system as it is currently installed (video doorbell, smart thermostat, smart fire alarm, and 2 water leak sensors) is 300. 

And then to prove their power they threaten you with penalties because now your old paint has faded and is not in compliance with the approved colors, or it is peeling or whatever.The POA is controlled by folks that moved here from NY, east coast, etc, not locals and they have let their position go to their heads, plus they really like rules to control others.