Investor or Licensee - ?

[Erica Williams]

HI Guys,

I live in TX and need advice. I want to be an investor and am well on my way. I've identified my target areas, began my cold calls / driving for leads/marketing etc.  

When I first started out I took RE classes and eventually passed the TX state exam. HOWEVER, along the way through networking I've heard as an investor in texas this definitely will limit my 'creative financing' options.  

 I have not enlisted with a broker so technically I am in inactive status according to TREC.  But my question is: Since I passed the State Exam, does that mean I'm  a TX licensee  even though I do not have a broker??  OR, as long as I stay inactive, the state does not recognize me as having a License? Please advise, thanks!! 

I see advantages to both and right about now having MLS access would be great. But in the long term, I know being an Agent carries higher standards / TREC requirements? Advice welcomed.

Erica