I think there is something to gain from this in explaining that, yes, they may use it, but there is inherit risk with using it. 

These things need so much power that unless the site has access to major grid access point you're wasting your time. 

They often have access to off-market listings and can also help you navigate on-market listings on MLS.

I had to access my actual financial situation.

Finding which of those strategies works best for you, your goals and interests could help you speed up your investment journey while gaining experience, confidence and eventually expertise in your chosen area. 

My area is somewhat geographically bounded by various different mountain ranges and the agencies from “East” or “Down South” might get 1-2 listings a year but will likely never gain much of a foothold due to their distant locations.

New to real estate but possess a deep understanding of the responsibilities to continue to gain knowledge and remain loyal with my clients and professionally with my colleagues.  

Your development deal will look much like a flip in the eyes of the IRS since it is 6-9 months as well you'll have the short-term side of taxes, not the capital gains taxing on it.  

I could, but the $$ fallout in lost reservations would probably be greater than any gains.  

Unfortunately it sounds like you've already missed your capital gains exclusion if you've been renting it out for more than 3 years, as it's 2 of the past 5 years.