You will run into the following: independent nurseries, people doing work on their yard and trying to unload their plants, really cheap potted plants from people who are unable to care for their plants anymore. 

Of course, you could also do "assistant" stuff, like helping them run comps, schedule showings, etc - making the arrangement a win-win.Note there are certain things you cannot do as an unlicensed assistant (like show properties to prospective buyers or possess an electronic lock box key), but it's a huge step towards being more independent and thus less dependent on your agent to do everything for you. 

Sean is 100% on point with everything he said above.As an independent broker operating very much the same as Plum Tree, etc.

I've been an independent contractor for other companies for a few years and am launching out on my own. 

I graduated college about 2 years ago and am currently in the process ,under contract, of acquiring my first duplex(of many ;p)I first became interested in real estate when I graduated college and started reading about financial independence and how to achieve it.

I know an independent broker I may hang my license with instead, but then again, I won't have the resources London can provide.

If you choose RE as a career, keep in mind that lending is a lot more difficult as an independent contractor.

Writing the loan required the independent estimate and an appraisal.

Look for a independent agent that:- represents multiple companies- has experience in the rental or construction areas- that, after talking to them, makes you comfortable that they will do their best for you.As you expand in your real estate business you may need some of the following types of policies:- renovation builders risk- vacant dwelling - apartment building policies- contractor liability - personal or Commerial umbrella policies - workers compensation- business autoIf you agent has only one option for companies or only handles one type of coverage it many not be a good long term choice for you.

Just got off the phone with a mortgage lender, and he suggested I don't go super aggressive with deductions this year (I'm self-employed as a musician, and most of my "jobs" are either cash or 1099 independent contractor).