If you want to flip a few homes a year, then getting your license might make more sense - it will help build relationships within the business and you can save on commissions. 

The only leverage investors have is that they want the commission from selling your homes later. 

so I always use the 10% figure for commish  title escrow seller credits and commissions. the back out cost of capital.  

One good thing going for me is I can waive my commission when purchasing a home for myself to credit towards the down payment.

After closing costs and commissions we walked away with a profit of over $35,000!

With this information, a good agent can negotiate down the price for you AND negotiate their own commission into the deal (in the event that the seller is not willing to compensate the agent).2.

The higher sales price also results in a higher commission for me.As for finding deals on the MLS, it's absolutely possible.

Commissions on lower priced houses are often fixed price not a percentage.

Top price, tenant value add, no vacancy or commissions.  

Paying a realtor a commission for doing that legwork should just be part of your analysis.