Representing my friend as an agent to buy down a house

[Gabriel Zepeda]

Hello Everyone, 

I am working on getting my real estate license to represent myself, my family, and friends when buying our homes. Do I need to work for a brokerage to make that happen? If I represent my friend, could I pledge my 3% commission into the home for credits, buy downs or as more money down for a down payment instead of taking a cash deposit? Thanks in advance! (In California)

Best,

GZ