My broker and the other agents at the office are very good about answering my questions, but I’m looking for some “training “ to teach me how to be a good agent.

True office style suspended drop ceilings are tacky and dated, but if you could research a noise isolation product or way to mount ceiling drywall, it may help greatly.

Buying a personal home is a life style decision not a investment and in fact is a liability.

I want them teaching me, not using me to fund their education.Occasional free education sessions are nice. 

I always offered to help them any way I can and made sure I found a way to return the favor if it's by referring them, clients, helping them with their own projects or whatever I felt was a good way to thank them.I also have paid coaches and I have two different one at all times that help me brainstorm my Business Plans, the skills I want to continue to acquire, and discussing all the problems coming up.Remember you have to think out of the box, find the people you want to get mentored by, find a way to help them first and they will teach you everything you want to learn. 

Nothing teaches faster than experience.

Remember that everyone has their own style. i.e.

UTLS  etc .. permits many CA locations permits can be 50 to 75k per home.. but I like building these days as a preferable to heavy duty rehab.. last comment is log home in your area unless your way up in the moutains above SD  its too hot and sunny those log homes will get weathered pretty badly and they usually don't fit in the scheme of what is going on in the area like say a desert style home with stucco etc.. that can handle the heat and sun

I'm looking into a community now of garden-style apartments that listed as Section 8 housing for 65 and up.

Someone paying $1200 a month may expect stone (e.g. granite or marble) but someone paying $600 a month is going to take what ever is there.Note that I haven't even touched on styles.