My take is that there's still a very important role they can play in the transaction, just maybe quite a bit different that it used to be, and certainly different roles for different types of buyers. 

The information came directly from a bank (not sure what the role of the banker was).I'm very skeptical, given the prominent use of "primary residence" all over the rules I've seen--though I can imagine some smaller banks that don't sell off their loans might be willing to allow it.Does anyone have any solid experience/evidence on one side or the other?

There are plenty of great buyers agents on here, but it's also on the investor to play a role and understand the market.

Alternatively, you can look into roles with the top commercial brokerages, I know the big ones have world class training programs that will greatly increase your real estate investing knowledge.

Research how brokerages function and what a sales person's role and financial responsibilities are. 

Here’s what you’ll get:+ insider’s view of everything:- what I look for when searching- how I found the properties- what it takes to seal & close the deal- numbers: all things $$$ related- plan: what’s my plan to do with them (with chances to practice/“role play” as if you’re the decision maker)- actual process of renovation: planning, construction cost, materials selection for flips, resources (contractors, subs, architects, supplier houses, etc...)- staging, marketing for sale- listing (diy or hire out, resources, etc...)- and everything else in between+ these are all free of course+ my promise that I won’t sell anything during the process :) so you’re perfectly safe with me!!!

Never a bad idea to define roles /responsibility but word of caution don't go overboard.

There are basicly 3 divisions, or roles to fill here.1 - Managing Partner2 - Cash Partner3 - Credit Partner...and the cash and credit partners can be combined to become the Finance Partner.How it gets divided depends on the type of deal it is...and negotiations.Typically, we will split it up this way:Manager = 40%Credit = 40%Cash = 20%...if there isn't a credit partner (all cash deal), that 40% is split 20/20 between the other two...with the understanding that if a credit partner is needed, that 20/20 is given back to the credit partner.

If not, outside of BiggerPockets, I would suggest that be the first place to start to surround yourself with like-minded individuals in the Real Estate business.Along with BP, DIG has definitely played a big role in my Real Estate investing career through networking and education. 1st meeting is free.

I also have over eight years experience in customer service roles and managing customer service teams and accounts retention.