Order and read this book to get ahead of your competition How to win friends and influence people by Dale CarnegieI took his course in 1962 and today I am re-reading it - I am sue you will enjoy the book also and will make it a part of your life. 

Do you think an agent would have that much influence that they could steer a client toward a more expensive and outdated home, just so they could make a few hundred bucks more?  

I told him thank you for using your influence and getting that done.

But if you plan to sell that should influence your process.  

I often have clients who ask me about off market deals, and I sometimes have deals that work out well through my sphere of influence.

LOL, if you don't have a calculator to use in RE deals and you only look for deals as obvious as Rob's car example,you won't be making much money or be around long.While you may understand the terms, you need to study the basics and understand the comparable property valuation process, you don't need to be an appraiser and add values for a fireplace, but understand the valuation of the overall market, neighborhood influences, location, how a school influences price and conditions.

I am not trying to steer any buyers or try to influence their decision based on race.

A few things that may influence the way you are leaning:1) if you are willing to house hack (multi?)

Friends, family members, co-workers (current and past), neighbors, and anyone else in your sphere of influence from social and spiritual gatherings. 2.

Hi @Ben Morand, How about working in Orlando while you're in college, but at the same time start gently marketing to your sphere of influence in Gainesville, providing them with information on a once a month business that helps them get more value, safety or enjoyment out of their homes, or updates them on the market?