A more accurate way to describe it is "I received no income" - because you can have deals but still have no profit if your expenses are greater than your income.If you were actively looking for deals (and can document it) - as opposed to merely planning to start later - then you file Schedule C and claim business expanses such as marketing, driving, technology and so on. 

While they are within their right to do that, they may not lie about an issue.

--- This includes requiring Housing Commissions to make better use of technology.

That is the best case scenario, of course sometimes you get lied to and stalled, that's why it is important to always emply a double strategy and stay a step ahead.

I want to be on top of that technology and then teach it via my new Podcast.That's the plan!

Leave out the emotion, the lies, the manipulation, etc.

So most agents are only putting about half of that $12k in their pocket, and out of that $6k they have to cover all of their operating expenses: licensing fees, MLS/ Realtor Association fees, continuing education classes to stay compliant with licensing requirements, monthly "desk" fees/ technology fees to their brokerage, health insurance for themselves and their family, errors and omissions insurance (required), marketing, car, car insurance, gas, clothes, computer/ software, cell phone, closing gifts, signs, photography, staging if they offer that, etc.

The key to success lies in ensuring you're entering the market at the right value.

Since you are an out of state investor, I guess the key lies with your property manager.

Answer here lies in the math.