Some agents are on a front loaded commission level, perhaps 45%/4%. Others are on a level commission usually around 15%.. So on a $360 AP, the agent would make $54 per year on the level commission rate.
That still doesn't explain the statement about networks.
On a side note, I recently had their contracting paperwork sent to me and your post made me go take a look at it because I didn't recall having the option of choosing a lower first year and higher renewals. Mine shows 45% first year and 6% renewals. No mention of a different option.