Wait, I get it, their online reputation will be enough of a guarantee for you!

A few eye-opening online searches will easily indicate if this is what you want to get into.

Nor have I been able to find an online application that I can fill out. 

Not much in terms of online reviews as far as I can tell

In my opinion, an in person meetup > an online connection.You may want to consider making a connection here and meeting up for coffee or attending a real estate networking event.Best of luck!

Usually that is the end of the communication unless they show up to the open house or complete an application online.

You can also check their reviews online at Google, Facebook, or Yelp.

If you have any questions I am happy to help answer on-line or off-line, don't hesitate to reach out.

I have been reading the online resources about getting started, searching the market, and even doing tours, but I am hesitant to jump in and buy a house as I have quite a large amount of student debt.

The builder refuses to send them to you.They state they are 'restricted' or send the type of layout you see online, just boxes, nothing the designer can use.