It would be one thing If i were just starting, but I just think at this stage of the game that commission has way higher value as a bargaining chip on an offer (the one thing I know I can do without help) than any additional realtor services that would accompany it.

On the Biggerpockets main page go to Tools then FilePlace and then select Contracts, Select the one that meets your needs @Riggies B tang

Being a newer agent I need someone to learn the ropes from and someone that can help me build a solid game plan to get out of my full time job and into real estate full time.

Until you build a track record with a private lender they will surely want you to have some skin in the game so there's that side of things you have to resolve with them.

They’re almost certainly going to require a down payment as they want their borrowers to have some “skin in the game”. 

I'm currently working as a purchasing manager in a manufacturing company a bit north of there, but will probably relocate soon after we find a good property.I'm a bit of a nerd, very into video games and role-playing games, but I also have quite a bit of experience fixing minor things around the house from when my parents made me as a kid.Looking forward to hearing from you all, and participating in the community!

let the General contractor select and manage architect? 

What's the end game and how does the mortgage help you get there?

I agree with you 100% not to get into the business to be emotionally attached to tenants and that end game your focus should be maximizing how much your property is valued at.My question to you based off that is in your opinion, based off your experience, when dealing with inherited tenants, do you view them as assets or liabilities? 

This is an entrepreneur's game of cart before the horse and horse before the cart at once--place property under contract not knowing if the deal will happen and spending at-risk soft cost dollars.