The MLS can give you the names of the Non-association broker members so there would be no CAR and NAR dues and this is allowed by California law.

Second, if your agent drafted such an agreement, the agent most certainly violated the law as well as the Code of Ethics (assuming he/she is a member of NAR) since he/she is clearly not qualified to handle such a transaction without a law license.  

I would say that if you can afford the startup costs associated with getting your license and joining the local NAR chapter and MLS, then you will find that your education in real estate in general will really take off.

The MLS/IDX is NAR's broker reciprocity system for Realtors.

Complete disclosure and acceptance by seller and Complete compliance with NAR code of ethics and Maryland law.

There is the coursework, the testing, the background checks, MLS fees, NAR fees.

In some areas the showing apps are used a lot, in other places you just may get a combination code to the lockbox or a special card that is part of your membership to  NAR (the national association of realtors).

If you want to be an agent or landlord, there is a good chance that over a course of a career you will be accused of a fair housing violation whether you commit one or not.I will point you to the NAR's pamphlet called "Steering, Schools and Equal Professional Service."

As an agent, you also have special requirements when you invest (NAR Code Article 4).

NAR has some great data and I love sifting through it.