before i kept coolant level right at max. and it never was a problem. now it seems the reservoir tank likes to be at the min. any thoughts?

If you have coolant outside of the tank, then you have a leak. It just that simple and the cause is either a broken tank, cap or connecting hose. Eventually, you will lose enough coolant that your engine will overheat. If it does overheat, you may face thousands of dollars in resulting engine damage.

small puddles of coolant found in the trunk(soaked carpet) and leaked infront of the wheel well. it seems as long as i leave it at the min mark its not pressurizing enough to leak out. but if i try to fill coolant to the max. mark it leaks out. didnt happen before but now that seems like the case.

maybe a fan is not working?

That sound like classic expansion tank leak. But for measure check the pulley for any play.

I'm not as pro mechanic, but have seen this come up before. I know my brother replaced mine a couple times before I bought the car from him.