It also makes cleaning easier, as you don't get that layer of nastiness where the sink meets the counter.But, if this is a low end, low rent type area, probably best to do it as cheap as possible.  

I have seen this a lot of time on properties were the commission is going to be low.

It sounds like you're ready to dive deeper into investing, and house hacking could be a great way to maximize your investment while keeping costs low.

Your looking at a rate around high 8s to low 9s possibly.

Guests provide reviews that noise transmission is high and privacy is low. 

I might be very wrong here, but entry point into the local properties in phoenix metro seems to be very high which makes cash on cash return seems to be very low or difficult. 

That is some low rent man.

He needs properties and connecting with agents is a very low cost way to get properties, as Realtors are trusted sources for motivated sellers and naturally get deals brought to them.

You could go into NJ (although the cost to play is high in Northern, but the rents can be very nice), or you could bypass and head into PA near Delaware Water Gap and get low taxes and good renter options.

Some seem low, while others seem high.