Once we really wanted to work toward financial independence, we needed to save every penny we could. 

Each brokerage is independently owned and operated, so their policy on minimum commission will vary.

Expected level of finishes...and the list go on...If there are many graduate students you might be able to get the house rented also mid year as they tend to move more and are more independent (going to fellowship in mid year...returning from research abroad etc).Are you looking at places which need rehab?

I can assure you that the road to financial independence, the road to riches, the road to wealth, whatever you want to call it, is littered with failed attempts to do what you are describing.  

Would joining them and starting off as a real estate agent before I start wholesaling independently be a smart idea ?

It's a low-income independent senior living apartment.

You'll find out the value by getting an independent appraiser to appraise the property. 

I think if you really want to develop and mentor investors you’d want to create a system that weens them from you and provides a way to invest independently from you after 2-3 deals, otherwise, the mentoring looks like a play for equity using other peoples money. 

I would suggest you set the wheels in motion to plan for your future financial independence and THEN travel to your heart's content. 

Independent comps, skip trace owners in small volume, title checks, etc.