on the other hand, i would outsource routine repetitive tasks like research, database entry, scheduling appointments, etc.

We see 5% in Los Angeles and 9% in the Midwest pretty routinely.

Ask about what their processes are to react to maintenance, rent collections, tenant inquiries, applications, leasing, etc.....If you don't agree with or are uncomfortable with their processes and procedures, keep interviewing. 

You can learn what they're about by asking a few questions:- Do you have routine meetings/trainings for licensees?

I'm in agreement with @Brian Pulaski's  comment above that it's better to have straight talk between Realtor and client than to have uncertainty and ambiguity because someone is afraid of having to explain something uncomfortable and risk losing a deal.  

I routinely have beaten local bank's terms and rates.  

The more I look into the property I think It could be a 'lipstick' flip for some quick revenue vs. the buy and hold routine.

We both wake up in the morning dreading our daily routines of going to jobs that we both hate but pays well.

That was really adding up money wise and after making my first cold call to a FSBO property that i'd found while driving for dollars....I realized how uncomfortable I was with knowing what to say and how to talk to sellers and buyers in the most effective manner.

Admittedly I do have a large number of inquiries resulting from two cars I purchased last year and the hard money lenders that I have been applying to recently.I told the lender representative that I feel uncomfortable paying such a fee upfront if there are no guarantees.