To my surprise the books I read were very motivational.  

That was quite a surprise.Now that I know the seller is motivated and is willing to work with me what can I squeeze from him?

Starting out you can get great leads from prospecting, open houses, CL ads, door knocking and your sphere of influence.

The other influencing agent somewhere in the background is the rate hike.

Over the last few years, whenever I've felt unfocused or just needed a bit of a push I've watched and re-watched (or just listened to) this speech and video. It's been a good kick in the a$$ for me and I hope it can h...

Sounds like you have good motivation, and already are taking action.

Type into YouTube search:"Find motivated sellers""Find cash buyers""Sean terry"Etc.Also buy than Merrill's wholesaling bible off amazon.

Your buyer's agent should be trained to understand certain concepts that you as an invest are motivated by:Understand what a "CAP" rate is and how to determine the CAP rate on investment properties.How to complete an APOD (Annual Property Operating Data form)How to get to the NOI and to apply the CAP Rate formulaHow to make offers on commercial and residential properties based on the return expectedKnowledge of negotiating with sellers, making trial offers and setting up settlement Skilled in comparable sales analysisCharles

I've been listening to the podcasts, and reading blogs and forums, and I completely understand now that Driving for Dollars around neighbourhoods is a great way to find those motivated sellers. 

I'm not confident that the city's dysfunctionality can be influenced by a handful of people with good intentions though.