Do I need to join a brokerage to have access to MLS

[Serena He]

Hi everyone,

I just got my license and get ready to become an investor. I have a burning question, but I cannot find a straight answer online.

So my goal is to have access to MLS, and to find leads for myself and other investors. My focus will be on working with investors and invest in real estate myself. I don't necessarily want to earn commissions at current stage.

My question is: do I absolutely need to join a brokerage? How much is the fee for accessing MLS and joining Association?

Thank you for your help!

Serena

[Chris L.]

Not sure how it works in California but in Maryland agents must place their license with a broker if they are going to practice. It does not sound like you want to work as a Realtor so instead of paying to become agent just to access MLS why don't you just find a Realtor to work with. Truth be told most good deals are found before they ever hit the MLS. In Maryland the MLS database is renamed Homedatabase.com for consumers. It offers the same exact inventory as seen by agents on MLS in real time and doesn't cost a penny. If your goal is to find good deals for yourself and other investors I would start studying how to market to set up a property funnel to find off market properties where motivated investors and sellers are reaching out to you! Good luck! Cheers!