Real estate investor/agent

[Aaron Schwartz]

Hi all!

I posted a week or so ago but didn't really garner a response. So here goes round 2: I am figuring the best way for me to get into real estate is by getting my licensed. Aside from learning a lot during the program, It will supply the catalyst i need to get me motivated. I know there are a lot of added bonuses to having the license (BP podcast episode 10, goes into some detail about this). Is signing up for a course the only way to do this? Are their some courses that are better than others? Is there a downside to getting licenced? Looking for any information regarding the topic. Thanks!

[Alan Mackenthun]

I got my license after purchasing a few properties. Long term I do plan on doing more retail sales when I leave my day job. The ability to see properties on my schedule, work on my own contracts, search the full MLS with all the options, and saving on some of the commission were my motivators and why I keep it. Joan is right though. The initial class and exam to get the license is one thing. The quarterly MLS fees, eKey fees, required continuing education, and possibly other broker fees are another. Maintaining the license is not free. Finally, I 2nd the recommendation to take a live classroom course. The discussions and Q&A opportunities are worth it.