I am taking a salesperson license exam this year to get into the industry and use these commissions toward closing costs.

With homes staying on the market longer, be aware of interest rates, as they can influence buyer affordability.

I'd research how much the rich people from NYC are paying and see what kind of houses they're staying in.

Says they are "fly by night," never returned my Deposit, Closed in Austin, looking for more "Suckers in Tampa, Florida." 

That was an excellent non-answer to my question, Skyler. hihi :)No they are not all the same. some are only interested in dealing with conventional purchases other are as you say better at handling assignments or double closes, some are commercial specialty, etc....A investor friendly one would be, at least from my point of view, one that understands there may need to be some last minute wheeling, dealing, and adjustment made to close a deal, understand what needs to be done and do not freak out about creative deals.Maybe my understanding or thoughts are wrong but that's what I meant by investor friendlyregards :) 

Do I need to choose a location close to home or farther away?

@David Avetisyan If you sell your home for $510K and provide a $10K seller credit, your taxable gain is based on the net sale price of $500K ($510K - $10K credit), as seller credits reduce the gross selling price for tax purposes.Tax Impact in CaliforniaCapital Gains Calculation: Your gain is the net sale price minus your adjusted cost basis (purchase price + closing costs + capital improvements).Primary Residence Exclusion: If you’ve lived in and owned the home for at least 2 of the last 5 years, you may exclude up to $250K (single) or $500K (married) under IRC Section 121.California Tax: Capital gains are taxed as ordinary income at rates up to 13.3%.The $10K seller credit lowers your taxable gain.

When you don’t have deals closing left and right yet, it’s easy to question if you’re even moving in the right direction.

I'm looking to stay away from fixer upper BUT I'm ok with general repairs and small work like paint and flooring.

Don't chase the market to the bottom.And Check current comps before you make that offer and close on that new purchase.