All the parties are from low trust cultures, basically Tribal, so their attitude on negotiating is Win Lose.

But time and  experience has changed my mind.I am a real estate broker, when new investors ask me that questions, I say "yes", You can never have too much knowledge.As an agent working for a company (keep in mind you don't want to act as an agent), you want to learn the culture, how agents think, what they do and talk about.Don't display how smart you are and how much money you want to make investing in real estate, just listen, go along to get alone.Yes you will have an opportunity to to access the MLS, that's a good thing.Do this with MLS:program MLS to follow listings in neighborhoods you are interested insearch for commercial properties, active and expiredkeep track of expired listing in the systemmake offers on expired listingsdon't try to compete with agents in the office for listings or sales -- REMEMBER you are an investor, do not work for pennies!

We are so messed up as a culture about Christmas.  

There are some softer cultural factors that are difficult to quantify as well.

I think it’s just one of the cultures that we have in the company.

You don't want to be miserable with where you're choosing to grow your portfolio, and many of these places have very different climates and very different vibes (ie things to do, culture, etc). 

It is so refreshing to be a part of this culture.  

@Matthew Irish-Jones Thanks for your detailed response. 

With steadily growing metro areas like Columbus, OH, you can find appreciation, some cash flow, and a diverse culture to keep you entertained

Here's some info on investing here... https://layer3realestate.com/i...If you want to know about culture, neighborhoods, employers, etc.