The worst way to loose credibility is the fake it till you make it BS and trying to peddle bad deals. 

How do I determine which agents are NOT bound to a single provider? 

Tell him that this is probably the top of the market and if prices come down 15% you'd loose your shirt. 

There are 100+ year old houses, they are bound of have issues, the question is what and how much will it cost.2.

Brigitte,Ordinance and law will matter more depending on where you live relative to flood zones, any special environmental zones, and what local code you are bound to. 

But we were shocked when the agent told us that generally speaking if you buy home and sell in before 5-7 years, you actually loose money since we have to account for commissions, taxes, repairs, etc.

That means you're entitled to all the benefits of an employee.This is a little bit of a red flag to me as it suggests the employer is playing fast and loose with the rules.

Anything can go well 1 time, doesn't change the fact that in the grand scheme of things pocket 2's are the inferior hand & one has a higher mathematical probability of loosing that hand than winning it.

@Sally Hanan very risky deal on those numbers, youmight end up loosing more rather making any. might work if u get deal for 120-125.

This is a symbolic gesture of your good will but also lets them know you are serious in your intentions.After the first incremental rent increase you may loose a tenant.