Call 5 ask them what sides of the city they like/dislike and why.

Unpopular opinion: some appraisers are local and dislike investors coming in to their neighborhood and "taking advantage" of homebuyers by forcing appreciation.

Call 5 ask them what sides of the city they like/dislike and why.

Also, I personally dislike HOA fees.

(an Associate's is better than nothing)  Don't worry about disliking Architecture -- finishing a degree is usually more important than the subject. 

I really dislike apartments.com.

Make sure your specifications are pretty specific (3BR/1.5Bath/county/land/age/district/hate small bathrooms/dislike yards under .25 acre etc).

With the MLS you have the listing agents entire sphere of influence being exposed to the property as well as the sphere of influence of every other realtor in the area.What is it that your friend dislikes about the listing agent?

:I especially dislike when I'm driving behind you and see that red glow fly all over my car....or find butts stuck in my radiator or intercooler.It's more than a little annoying when you are cycling or running as well ;-) 

First few lots toward an entrance may be sold at cost, sometimes less to generate activity in the subdivision.The HOA, gosh I'd destroy that if possible, I dislike HOAs, but in some areas it is a plus.