Adding in the property management fees for an out of state owner and my Dallas experiment ended 6 years ago.... with that being said, those Dallas properties have finally had some appreciation. 

I would suggest you call a few brokers and see what kind of fees they charge and if they expect you to sell a certain amount of properties a month. 

You can also join COREE, there is a membership fee and it is part of the national REIA.

At that time, I take the application fee and use the transunion check system. 

I could care less if people "talk bad" about HOAs, I have no hidden agenda or incentive for people to buy in an HOA or not.  

Currently I am interested in solving two problems - reducing the amount spent on settlement fees at closing and also discovering a flip opportunity in our area.  

They can also close quickly, may be a better value with lower fees and interest, and potentially more flexible on terms than hard money. 

You went in for a buy, but you were not pre approved for a mortgage.You are not a veteran, because you are still on active duty.Appraisal, inspections, attorney fees, are always out of pocket, regardless of your mtg approval.You can get a regular loan- depends on how much.

My question is, if I make a purchase using myself as a broker, is it possible to receive a credit from the seller when acting as my own agent instead of receiving a brokerage fee?

Do you want to be the owner of the home, or do you want to assign and collect a one time fee?