Do I just chalk it up to losing the commission, or is there anything I can do?  

Hi Blake,I'll give you tip.Here in Texas, sub-metering (and Allocated Utility Service) is regulated (in a decent fair way) by Texas Law (Texas Public Utilities Commission).The type of meters, the amount of late charges, the amount you can mark the bill up to recover the cost of sub-metering, what the lease must say, etc...You might want to check the State, Parish and city laws and see if it's regulated, and then come up with a strategy for it.Maybe ask the State Landlord Association about it, if you have one.Good Luck!

For example, I know a Broker in Texas that turns a profit for every agent that pays $15,000 in commissions.

What percentage can they expect to pay for commission?

Independent contractors can be commission only.https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee

XYZ and ABC won't tell you area specific data about Barrio Viejo.. or any of the other specialty properties in the barrios.. nor off market deals.. but hey.. keep on saving that commission..

I am real estate agent licensed in FL and VA, and I was curious to see if any of you have had the opportunity to use their commission towards the deal? 

I have a few private parties expressing interest, showed it to 1 prospect already & he's applying for a mortgage.I'd prefer to NOT have to pay a seller's commission, but just in case, does anyone have experience with like redfin etc? 

Yes, they'll take the majority of the commission but what you'll learn will help you for the rest of your career. 

My question is, we received the documents to sign, a portion is pasted below about commission.