I am a newbie agent with zero transactions - despite 24/7 prospecting and a 45 year sphere of influence, a bigger-than-life local profile, that includes a goodly # of 40-something couples with tremendous income, but not enough to afford a home in SB.

There is generally 3 things that influence the returns you can get.1. 

A deep understanding of their needs will help you all collectively determine whether you're a great match for each other.And, even if you're not a match, a deep understanding of their needs puts you in the best position to help them find someone who is a great match for them.Money or influence: You win either way!

Having working as a commercial appraiser in the past, we would call the comps sales agents to dig all of the motivating factors that influenced the buyers' decision, do a quick market analysis, look at the asset conditions, etc.Is it reasonable to ask my future agent to do all of this leg work as well?

After all, this is not the main influencing factor, and you have absolute power to interpret.

Likewise, by aggregating by zip code, it's clear that location has a major influence on demand. 

What he paid may have a big influence on what he’d accept. 

Ask an influencer that knows a ton of people.  

In my opinion it's better to meet with probate attorneys.With PA's you get a center of influence and a deal pipeline.

@Ikaika FarmerTo be a real estate investor there’s three books that are must reads Rich dad poor dad Richest man in Babylon How to win friends influence people