People are our greatest resource and a flat population increase is usually the first sign of issues for any country.The world is always transitioning and it is always cycling through ups and downs.

Some brokerages will charge a flat fee and others will take a percentage (70/30 seems to be the norm).

Then, would any of you suggest simply listing a property for sale on the MLS for a flat fee and save 3% in commissions if the homes have how DOM, the market is hot in the area, and you have it priced right? 

In my wholesaling business if I haven't found a buyer using my own list/marketing methods, I'll do a flat fee listing on the MLS which will usually get it sold.  

If this is for investing purposes a flat fee or 100% commission brokerage is the way to go.

Having a house with a yard is a huge plus in my mind so while I think you will get pinched a bit (rent flat to down 10% or longer vacancies of 1-2 months), there will always be a demand for entry level house rentals.

I believe that there are auctioneers who will accept a flat fee regardless if the property sells but you must do your own marketing.

I don't mind stumbling along my way - but I would like to try and avoid falling flat on my face if possible :)Thanks in advance for your time!

Ask them for a flat fee price for creating a contract for you.  

They are on the hunt for money now when in the down turn they were keeping taxes flat because if they raised backed then almost everyone appealed because they were hurting with the economy.Some of my clients have some ongoing appeals right now and the properties are in the tens of millions so the taxes are substantial.