If you are looking at any off market deals, you can negotiate with the realtor on whatever fee they would incur for their services, but I suggest sticking with them if you think they are a valuable team member.

...RE, on the other hand, is comparatively simple to me--I can wrap my mind around what makes a property valuable, what factors affect the market, the advantages/disadvantages of various RE investment strategies, etc.Don't get me wrong--I'm not trying to knock crypto.  

Relationships are a two-way street, and the more you invest in others, the more likely you'll get valuable insights and support in return.

These connections can provide valuable insights, advice, and potential partnerships.

I have discovered in the past few years the most valuable skill is the ability to find a deal.

We have a saying in Mexico that goes: "Pueblo chico infierno grande" (small town big inferno) we all know each other in the real estate industry so I take my reputation very seriously.Correct realtors make commissions, as well as developers make a profit from the sale of the properties.I am all up for respecting, helping each other, and providing valuable information to readers, today is my wedding anniversary and my wife is going to kill me if I spend another hour writing in this forum lol. 

Working with realtors for valuable market insight and contractors for scope of work might be a good option for you starting out if you don't have experienced flippers you can work alongside that know this stuff. 

.- Network of Professionals: Realtors have extensive networks of lenders, contractors, and other industry professionals, providing valuable    resources and connections for your investing journey.- Streamlined Process: From property search to closing, a Realtor can streamline the investing process, saving you time and effort while    ensuring a smooth transaction.Engage with the Discussion:- Share your experiences working with Realtors in your real estate investing endeavors.- Ask questions about how to find the right Realtor for your investment goals and preferences.- ag a fellow investor who could benefit from leveraging the expertise of a Realtor in their investment ventures.Let's harness the power of collaboration and expertise to elevate our real estate investing strategies.

Hi @Steven BarrDavid Friedman provided valuable insight on this. 

Another valuable skill to learn is how to find off-market or deeply discounted properties.