Getting your NMLS license while already holding your RE license.

[James Park]

I know that the question of "Should I get my real estate license" has been asked hundreds of times on Bigger pockets, but I wanted to ask if there would be any benefit for a real estate broker/agent to also hold an NMLS license (Mortgage broker license). In state of California, if you hold your CA broker license, I believe you also get into the lending business in California, but in Georgia, I will need to take new prerequisite courses and take the NMLS state exam.

The reason I am curious about the NMLS license is that I may be interested in getting into the HML/lending game down the road in addition to my SFR rental portfolio for passive income. I am also interested in learning more in depth what goes on behind scenes in real estate financing.

I am curious to know if any real estate brokers/agents on BP also have your NMLS license and if you do, has it been beneficial having your NMLS license for refinancing and originating your personal loans or more of a distraction for you? If you get your NMLS license, are you allowed to hold the license under your RE brokerage or does it have to be a mortgage company?    

Thank you and I apologize if a similar question has been asked before.