To Be or Not to Be: A Realtor That is

[Roger Smart]

Hello Fellow BP Members,

I just wanted your input on whether or not I should get my real estate license. I live in Ohio and I know some states are different than others.

But instead of just asking for others input, I want to give mine as well.

I am leaning towards yes and here is why:

I am very new to the scene of real estate. I went to a few seminars last summer but just joined BP within the last month. I feel that learning a trade in the field will increase my knowledge of the field. I also believe that it will help me network and market which are two of the most important facets of this business. 

The only real downside I see is that I'm not sure how it would affect wholesaling/bird dogging, purchasing properties for fix and flips/holds. I know I would get access to the MLS and I could close my own deals. But are there rules and guidelines I have to follow to find and close those deals that may not be there for someone without a license.

Thanks and all input is welcome.

Rod

[Zac P.]

Originally posted by @Roger Smart:

I am definitely open to being an agent full time. Real estate is what I want to do and so I figured this was a good way in.

 Roger,

I struggled with the same decision for years... I would recommend for you to just do it! It's totally worth it. MLS access is a great tool, being able to quickly get into houses/write contracts is convenient and you make/save a ton of $$$ on transactions. I don't even advertise myself as being a Realtor, but people know that I'm "in the game" and just ask me to represent them on their deals. I make very good side $$$ occasionally representing friends, family and other investors buying properties. Yes, Realtors are held to a higher ethical standard, but we should all hold ourselves to these high standards... It does NOT hold you back as an investor in anyway unless you are purposely looking to lie and deceive your clients/costumers. Being able to tell a potential client that you are a Realtor gives you more credibility as well. Find a good brokerage company to work in and you are golden! For myself, not having my license would hold me back. Good luck! :)