Investors buy direct as well as with a Real Estate Agent.  How do they get a Better "Deal"?

1.  The Loan has a Front End as well as a Back End.  The Investor always has the seller help

buy down the loan (paying points) and pay some of the non-recurring closing costs. Getting a Free

Credit Report and Appraisal is probably possible, too.  Possibly the investor can get a loan based upon

the as-repaired Value of the Property or a separate loan for making desired improvements...anything else?

2.  The "Deal" has a Front End and a Back End, too.  Credits can be obtained for new carpeting, new appiances, upgraded landscaping, etc.  On the backend, termite and roof clearance could be required prior to closing.  And, credits for any major repairs could be requested after the Inspection Reports came in...anything else?

Investors are taught to "Use" a Buyer's Agent and then switch to the Listing Agent to save on the Commission.  Should the Commission structure be completely eliminated, also?  Or, does the whole system need to be looked at more closely and re-vamped?