You can get pretty deep on this topic, with some really intense math and theory about the optimal time to exit or refinance, that I can't even begin to follow.

Hii am just joined BiggerPockets and i would like to introduce myself briefly:I have several years of experience in international real estate investments, both residential and commercial.I own a company that helps individuals and companies to find the best buy to let investments opportunities (to maximise their return, in terms of rental yield and capital appreciation) or even for personal occupation as a main residence or holiday home.I have expertise in several international property markets, mainly in the UK but also in the United States (specially in New York, Los Angeles and Miami) and other overseas locations such Luxembourg, Malta, Dubai, Panama and Monaco.Thanks to my deep knowledge of the international property markets, i am able to find the best opportunities in the UK and overseas, according to my clients requirements and search criteria.Accordinjg to my expertise and skills, I would be happy to provide information and free advice to all the members, so should you need any information regarding international property investments, please do not hesitate to contact me.I look forward to hear from you !

If you are purchasing said property to fix and flip then you can absolutely negotiate a discount on the front end commission if you use the agent on the back end sale.  

So I can earn while I learn( Only want to work there untill my investments can pay me enough to quit) and further propel myself deep into the world of real estate investing.           

If you are willing to just dump it now and let it go off market for a discount and not doing any upgrades then go that route.

(e.g. deposit down, upgrades, etc) I'm aware that purchase price is pretty tough to get a discount on since it sets a bad precedent, but I'd like to make sure i don't leave anything on the table.3.

He will be nit-picky about the work that the first contractor completes and might point out minor flaws (some might be legitimate, and some might be no issue), and he'll offer his services (maybe at a discount) to have those flaws fixed.What comes to mind is inviting a vacuum salesman over to take a look at a vacuum you just bought from another salesman.

I hear ya @Samuel Lacroix, you'd be surprised how many want to jump in on the deep end!

We are going deep into Elk Grove, Del Paso Heights and West Sacramento.

I have heard people talk about lots under 50 feet deep  must have certain setbacks, and over have different setbacks....basically, I am just looking for a thorough source, possibly from the city, instead of hearsay.