If the goal is simply to better understand the commercial landscape, values, and happenings, skip buying any course and start subscribing to the Business Journal for your closest major metro.

It simply allows them to be able to represent. 

That being said, if it's in the contract but you just didn't deposit it, then you would simply be on the hook for it.Same goes for the end buyer.

Her “casual demeanor” seemed to me as her simply recalling the details of the situation.

And 2, this idea that people will pay a higher prices simply by virtue of you charging a higher price.

On my listing, the agent simply said that there is a buyer's agent commission of x% on full price offers with no unreasonable contingencies.

There is a common misconception about deleading cost and how it can be done.It varies from situation to situation, it could be as simply as covering hazardous element with some plywood or metal, or it could be some replacement doors/windows and making paint intact.

I believe that by simply adopting this kind of mindset you'll cut costs tremendously.

I'd simply tell them that when the temperature on the thermostat is changed, it takes time to reach that temp. 

You also are gaining tax free funds vs. simply deferring the tax liabilty down the road until you sell the new 1031 property you purchased.