Investing as Realtor

[Account Closed]

As an aspiring real estate investor, I was curious about something. I'm Realtor (only since June of this year), and I was wondering how that could potentially affect my investing business both positively and negatively? 

The first thing that comes to mind in terms of a positive aspect, would be my access to my local MLS. I imagine that gives me a great advantage among my piers. Not to mention, I have build somewhat of a rapport with: other Realtors, other investors, mortgage professionals, title companies, and most of all past clients.

When I think of would could be consider a negative aspect, would be things related to disclosure, and conflicts of interest with my brokerage (I am currently with Long & Foster). I could be over thinking this though.

I would to get some feedback on this, by some fellow investors, who also have their real estate licenses. In my opinion (and again I'm just getting started), I have to believe the positives far outweigh the negatives.

[Brian P.]

No problem. When I was a new agent I continued to invest and at that time California had a list of the Real Estate Commissioners Regulations as part of the Code. Later it was removed, but during that time we had to disclose even though we were acting as a principle and not an agent.

I found out it was no problem, I just created a written disclosure that said I was acting as a principle in the transaction and in no way was I acting as an agent for the sellers or buyers I was just representing myself. 

I also said that my being a licensed agent it was a benefit to them because I was knowledgeable about real estate law and familiar with the proper contracts, etc. and had a relationship with some of the best title companies, mortgage brokers and other professionals  that might be needed during the transaction to insure a smooth as possible transaction for the both of us and they wouldn't have to worry about dealing with someone that  was flying by the seat of their pants and full of misinformation. 

Almost every one loved I was licensed and knowledgeable except for those few that were intending to play games during the transaction and avoid the disclosure of material facts and hoping to extort some more money from me during the process. Also a few wanna be sellers that didn't actually own the property and had no legal interest whatsoever.