The main motivation to use the MLS for comps while wholesaling.Is it legal to pay a real-estate agent for this privilege, either with a percentage of wholesale profits or with a flat rate?

I am in the midst of picking up a 2 flat that I will renovate.

I'd prefer a flat fee as opposed to a percentage, the properties I am looking to buy are in the circa 300k range! 

If cap rates remain flat, then your expected rate of return will increase over your desired 10% target. 

I find lake forest to be the perfect compromise relative to location, amenities, etc. most of our social life is in Irvine too, so just off Alton or Bake will keep us close to “comfort” yet allow us to own, not “kill” the bank and hopefully, grow some leveraged equity in our home. 

I understand local markets will drive the ultimate decision, but it feels like every market I look:1) unemployment is through the roof in the last 4 months2) mortgage delinquency is on the rise3) rents are flat - but there have been many stories about landlords not being able to collect rent4) housing values have not dropped yet and cap rates are still at all time highs.

I've worked on numerous homes in Coronado, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, and it's very common for high end homes to have a guest house/pool house/casita/granny flat etc. etc. so an ADU is basically just a guest house w/ a full kitchen. 

Flat fee for my standard set. 

Also, would like to tell real estate agents that I could offer a flat $500 versus whatever % they make want.

Traditional insurance coverage, RV’s normally stay a flat rate throughout the year, thus you will still need to maintain full coverage.