If the buyer is ethical s/he will do what they've agreed to do pursuant to their contract.

If you want to practice real estate, or make money investing in real estate, get a good education, act honorably and ethically, and don't promise something unless you intend to do it.

Look at thier previous flips get try to find out if they're ethical.

We have experience with new construction and run an extremely ethical operation. 

Meanwhile, I was building credibility with them by showing a strong work ethic and that I grasped the concepts they were teaching me.

I've checked out thier properties got a feel for thier ethics and thier business savvy.

They may have moral concerns, but those are not so much "professional ethics".

You also have no moral or ethical obligation to give him back his money either. 

I am eager to work with individuals who are ethical and have professional experience like myself.

If you're working with an agent that doesn't require some sort of Buyer's Broker agreement, you're probably working with a part-timer or someone who doesn't value their time.My Investor / Flipper agreement only applies to properties I introduce, but also commits the flipper to remarket the property through me when the project is complete.My time is too valuable to waste with people who have zero commitment.As to dealing with the listing broker, it is CRITICAL to remember that a seller's agent is legally and ethically required to get the best possible deal for the seller.