In addition to being a great agent with a good understanding of the market, he is also an investor and works under a brokerage affiliated with a fantastic management company. 

That would be like judging a Real Estate Agent based on the brokerage he is affiliated with.It sounds like you found an LO who is responsive and an expert in his market so I wouldn't hesitate.

Because Affiliated Business Arrangements (AfBAs) are shams?

If the affiliation isn't very strong, conflict resolution becomes a problem.  

I have messed around with a few online business models but just couldn't find any sort of enjoyment out of them(Ecommerce, affiliate marketing, blogging) I began reading about business about 9 months ago when I got out of a toxic 2.5-year relationship.

Works at Century 21 Affiliated Appleton

Primarily, I work in business intelligence and my fiance' works in affiliate marketing. 

Chantel,You obtain your license and during that time, find a property management company or real estate office that you would like to affiliate.

After reading several articles from an affiliate website (I don't think I'm supposed to mention affiliates by name??)

They also have their own property management arm (which I use) and have affiliated contractors if you need work done.