I'm assuming that you're going to reject this offer, even though it is a full market price for the house, simply because you can't afford the commission. 

How would I know what price range I can afford?

I just have choices now buying a nice car early on wouldn't have afforded me.  

In addition to summary process (eviction) cases, the courts’ jurisdiction includes small claims cases, consumer protection cases, and civil actions involving the health, safety, or welfare of the occupants or owners of residential housing, including cases with personal injury, property damage, breach of contract, and discrimination claims."

I can't afford to to give both properties the attention they deserve  and I'm not sure I can get top dollar if I  cut corners.

If he were to respond, I honestly have no idea what to suggest as a fair and affordable deal.

I don't really have the money to spare, but I certainly can not afford to lose any money on a bad deal.

So the following is a list from my experience, that you need to a) plan for and b) understand how to deal with if you're going to get into RE in the city.Tenants (non rent controlled / stabilized): there is a massive shortage of affordable housing in the city, and a shortage in homeless beds as well.

The third move would be to find an affordable flip and jump in to real estate investment aiming you enjoy it. 

They are usually fresh out of college with lots of debt--- that means they can't afford a mortgage.- Why buy a house you have to all the work on yourself (mowing the lawn, watering the grass, etc) when you could live in an apartment building with an on-call maintenance man to do the work?