Real Estate License - Investing

[Ana Brasher]

I am considering obtaining a real estate license (Texas) for greater access to MLS and to avoid paying buyer's commissions on investment properties. It is required that new real estate agents work under a broker for 5 years. Do I need to work under a broker if I am only representing my own interests (not buying or selling for others)? Let me know your comments.

[Alecia Loveless]

@Ana Brasher Having your real estate license is pretty expensive between licensing courses, continuing education, insurance, brokerage fees, wear and tear on your vehicle, MLS dues, and the fact that many companies require that you work at it full time.

Many investors find that it’s simply not worth it to just save in commissions which should likely be a write off.

I have a great relationship with my Realtor that I've worked with for 26 years. His agency has a great searchable database of the listings that are on the MLS but it's not the MLS and if I see anything at all I want the MLS listing to I contact him and he sends me the actual link to its MLS listing immediately.

I'm sure other investors have other options for accessing the MLS but this is how I do it.