They don't advertise in anything but their local free gas station paper so no one ever knows. 

One last thought if you do Uber as well, which I recommend you do, get yourself some of those large magnets that stick to your doors that advertise you are an agent.

Is it worthwhile to get the papers they advertise in?

I thought about checking out one of those deals advertise in billboards, etc about $1400-$1500 per slab of granite.

You'd want to consult with an attorney for the legality of such things in your area and also speak with a broker on the rules of self-advertising while hanging your license with them.

Perhaps one that advertises that they handle hail damage.  

Regarding your Apache Junction lease option, had you been advertising it off-MLS and someone contacted you, or was it just happenstance that landed the buyer?

The big direct writers(companies who only sell their own product with their own sales force) put billions into advertising.  

Being that it takes a little more time to build clientele, being a designer, I feel as if, it would be smart, for me to go ahead an make a name for myself, by flipping antique pieces of furniture and while advertising, mention that I also offer interior design services.

The practice of “wholesaling” remains legal if these “truth in advertising” rules are adhered to."