Appraiser or real estate agent?

Question

I would like to eventually invest in real estate for the long term as a source of income.  I do not know a lot about houses/property.  My question is:  Which would help me learn the worth of a potential real estate investment;  learning to be a real estate agent or becoming an appraiser?

Jeremy Jackson · Answer

My answer is C.......none of the above.  If you're just wanting to build confidence in determining value or analyze a potential investment property, just dive in.  No need to be an appraiser or licensed agent to do that.  Start analyzing properties, network with other investors and ask questions, study your target area.  All of which are free and you can start today!  :)

Anita Morris · Answer

Thank you Mike Cumbie.  I guess what I forgot to include in my question is:  I want to know which of the two: real estate agent or appraiser would help me when I am ready to purchase a house for investment purposes such as a rental.  I want to know when I am looking at houses what is the best deal and will it make a profit as a rental.  So between the two I am just wondering which would help me to know  if it is a good investment for income. Thank you again.

Mike Cumbie · Answer

Well an appraiser would be the banks authority on the value of the property. However to get into that field (At least by me) you have to work for an appraisal company for a number of years and do hundreds of hours of schooling with the courses they require. To get a salespersons license it is 75 hours and a 50 question test. So that entry level is way different.

Overall as an appraiser you can sell your services and make decent money that way working for different banks and government agencies. I guess it depends on if you are looking to become an appraiser as a career choice, because it's a lot of work to just get the education and certifications.

Good Luck!

Anita Morris · Answer

Thank you all so very much!   I really appreciate all the advice.

Appraiser or real estate agent?

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