As a REI is it worth getting my real estate license?

[Tanner King]

I bought my first investment property this year, a duplex that I am currently house hacking in San Antonio, TX. 

I want to start scaling my portfolio, and plan on starting up an LLC this year to acquire and hold/flip properties through.

What are the pros and cons of getting your real estate license as a REI? Is being an agent something you could do on the side? (currently working a W2 that I'm happy in and don't plan on leaving anytime soon)

For me I think getting my real estate license would give me more confidence after the education I go through to get it, help me gain connections, the commission from my own investments. On the down side I know the costs of getting and maintaining your license and the time it takes to get it. Is there other pros and cons I am missing?

Thank yall in advance!

[Jacob Barton]

Quote from @JooYung Choi:

An investor here, got my license in 2024. 

I would say it's definitely worth it based on what you want to do with it. If you are closing 1 deal a year, mathematically it would make sense to do so.

I personally got mine to go see homes on my accord and not deal with the hassle of scheduling with another agent. You don't need a license to gain connections but you getting commission from your own purchases is a huge plus!

I still work a W2 and I love working as an agent as well. I love working with investors as they understand the nuances of real estate and I can help them find their fix and flip deals, house hacking deals, and help them strategize for their future investments.

All in all, I would say get your license if you are doing at least 1 deal a year. Not sure if you also plan to work as a realtor on the side as well. Not worth if you are doing it for connections. There's so much content out there which I find way more helpful than a real estate course. 

I second this. I got my license for this exact reason. Being able to write my own deals, view homes on my time, and get commission at the closing table makes it all worth it. Additionally, I also work a W-2 job full time, and still have time to help investor clients on the side, so I wouldn’t let that deter you.  Nor would I worry about the up front cost too much if you can swing it, it paid for itself after my first deal.