It is important to interview them, morals, ethics, and more to make sure it all aligns with you. 

I need assistance/feedback on how to find ethical mentors in my area.3.

Hi Rachel, Generally speaking, if the agent is an owner and they don't disclose it, it's an ethics violation. 

@Jonathan Holmes, @Joe Davalos and @Michael Ablan There are a number of sites where you can direct people to get off mailing lists.The FTC has an informational site about all sorts of unwanted contact: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0262-stopping-unsolicited-mail-phone-calls-and-emailBut the place to go for opting out of mail is The Direct Marketing Association: http://www.directmail.com/mail_preference/Most professional and ethical list compilers will run their lists the the DMA suppression each month as part of the standard list hygiene.

Not saying its an ethical angle, but it is the law, If you never received a deposit slip regarding the safekeeping of your deposit, you can demand that deposit due.....Secondly,"No deposit may be collected by a landlord unless the rental agreement is in writing and a written checklist or statement specifically describing the condition and cleanliness of or existing damages to the premises and furnishings, including, but not limited to, walls, floors, countertops, carpets, drapes, furniture, and appliances, is provided by the landlord to the tenant at the commencement of the tenancy."

Doesn't sound right to me so am I being overly cautious or is he stepping over legal or ethical boundaries?

You sound like the kind of person I'd love to learn from and partner on deals with, honest and ethical.

It really is that simple when you have a burning reason why.Partnered with an amazing partner who has a tremendous work ethic and who hated his job more than I hated mine.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

Having said that, finding an ethical commercial broker who you can stand to hang out and who is willing to work smaller deals to start with is not an easy task.