We use Key Data Dashboard, a superior analytics tool used by property managers, DMO's and similar organizations.

I think I am on a path to recovery, ready to check out the market tools to finally pick and market and find some deals!

If it is some kind of big deal like it is an old metal barn eyesore on a downtown city block undergoing revitalization and you're going to build a $10mil apartment building on it, if you can get the land...hey hey maybe the powers that be might negotiate something with you, with perhaps a promise you won't fight value for 10 years or something like that. 

Large companies and equity firms obviously have more resources at their disposal than a small investor, but to me I couldn't help thinking about all of the tools and extra benefits we get as small investors.

If you really don't value your agent's ability and think you can do it better, it's likely best that you 1) interview more to find one that you do trust, 2) go through the listing agent, directly, if you're that comfortable with handling your side on your own, or 3) maybe get your license so you can control your side of negotiations with the proper tools needed (MLS access with agent info, showings, contracts, tax records, uploaded listing docs like surveys, disclosures, broker assistance for questions, etc.).

BP has various tools to help you analyze your deals (rentals, flips, wholesale, etc). : https://www.biggerpockets.com/investment-calculators7.

I would disagree with number 2 - in this environment, heavy rate buydowns are a common tool in the toolkit for lenders and borrowers to make deals work and are in no way indicative of "not being well-capitalized"

After well over 1000 houses it’s proved it’s worth.BUT if you think sugar coating will work sprinkle sugar all over the conversation. certainly nicey nice communication and unabashed laughter will get you elected but it won’t buy many houses. our product is money and we best not forget that. there’s a power exchange happening in every conversation and the one who blinks first fails unless winning isn’t important.  

For analysis, you need to identify a market that interests you using tools like AirDNA, Mashvisor, Pricelabs, etc. 

With this, as a lender we can exclude any payments for the current home to help increase your borrowing power for a new home.