The way the bank finances an 8-plex and a duplex that you occupy is completely different so be careful with how you plan your purchase. 

like me, alot of investors, especially out of the area investors/ rebab/flipers, want to structure something above and beyond paying a contractor for his estimated repairs, (or to an agent for being a project manager for the completion of the rehab above basic selling commission for relisting)  but something to incentivize the deal, like a part commission above and beyond a certain net; offer this to an agent or GC to put extra attention to the deal to completion...you can call this anything you want, a team member, a sweat equity partner..it doesn't matter..but I certainly want to offer a "part" of a deal above and beyond...and repeat with that person...it is a good feeling...and Im out of the area, and if any action is to be taken, I will be semi dependant on somebody to care above and beyond the norm... - from zero experienced flipping guy, matt..

Never used that, but if you didn't specify what you wanted in the first place, then i say they completed the contract.

I'm about 3/4 complete with renovating my second property.  

My husband and I feel like in essence, they are acting within their professions of realtor & contractor and that their compensation should simply be the commission from the purchase and sale of the property, and the contractor fee for managing the renovation.

. - good points made above by @John Knisely and I would add to that - if you are going to be an agent and do investments, you should have two completely separate business entities.

Wish I had some good advice for you about our area but there simply isn't at this point

Apt complexes run rent specials,, no application fee's, free months rent.. so watch ad's outside banners and websites are easy everything is so well done now days,, complete video tours.. 

Or is simply dropping the price until it rents the best strategy?

Completely dilapidated housing, much of it abandoned.