Purchasing a home in Arizona, no realestate agent used, since it was a new built.what should I be on the look out for, any Arizona Title company highly recommended, and escrow companies if the seller does not choose one?

These rules, which include a requirement that sellers set aside a portion of the purchase price for buyer-agent commissions, prohibitions on modifying the commission, and permission to filter listings by commission, all enable NAR, its co-defendants, and its members to maintain buyer-agent commissions at supra-competitive levels unrelated to brokers’ experience or the services provided, steer home buyers away from lower commission homes, and drive out discounters—among other harms."

I have been kicking around the idea of getting my license in New York even though I am not actively looking at real estate in NY or do I really intend to get a job as an agent. 

Lots and lots to consider here.The main thing I would suggest is to reach out to some agents in the markets you are trying to find properties in. 

Most local agents know the area pretty well and can work with foundation crews to verify what they know as well.

I invest heavily in this area as an agent.

I have been approached through an agent with a possible lease to buy proposal but need guidance in how to negotiate such a transaction.

@JT Thomson, the best way to do this is to research top luxury agents who can successfully lease your sister's place. 

Tonight, it seems to me that obtaining a real estate license in California is the best investment at the moment.Unfortunately, California has no reciprocity rule, meaning my license would be useless if I moved elsewhere–which is quite disappointing.Still, I think it would allow me to start working in real estate as an agent within a few months.What do you think?

Usually, the listing agent pays for the photographer, so the value to the client is already added.