Seller flipped a switch on me and now I am confused

[Mala S.]

I am trying to get started in real estate investing and sent out a direct mail campaign last week in search of motivated sellers. My hope was to invest in at least one of these properties and potentially wholesale any other deals I may come across through my marketing.

But now, one of my not-so-motivated/ motivated sellers offered to pay me a finder's fee if I can find a buyer for their property at fair market value.
(the seller is sick of dealing with RE agents and offered me half a typical RE commission).

I have a great rapport with the seller and am happy to help them out, and wouldn't mind the extra cash. I also think this could be a good learning experience.

So will I ruin my rep as a wholesaler if I start marketing a property at fair market value? I feel like I have a conflict of interest here...

Has this happened to any other wholesalers out there? Has a seller ever offered to pay you a finders fee to get a full priced buyer for their property?
How do licensed real estate agents feel about this?