How to get a good start in real estate investing?

[Michael M.]

Ladies and gentlemen I'm at a crossroads. I'm a big fan of Michael Quarrels. I think he's the smartest real estate investor there is. But Michael Quarrels is a licensed broker which gives him lock box access, and allows him to write his own offers. So I figured I follow in his footsteps and get my license before I pay him to mentor me.

I recently spoke to broker#1 who has several small offices. He's looking for a full time go getter. He's asking $750 (overpriced) as far as his price to help me get to licensed in 2 months. I also met with a Keller Williams broker#2 who has a real estate class ($250) for 1/3 the cost and also has several brokerages.

The Keller Williams program is cheaper and faster (6 weeks).

Both offer me only a real estate license and no pay check until I close a deal.

My plan is to get my real estate license, while I work a day job to get an apartment. Then pay Michael Quarrels to mentor me and I follow his program to the promised land or go bust.

I understand real estate investing doesn't require a real estate license, however I'm shy of the $100,000 Michael Quarrels recommends to start his program. That and my living situation isn't that great. The job and apartment plan while I study, get licensed, and then study again to go for the real prize, wholetailing (buying at 50 or 65/100 and selling for 100% of as is value, no rehab).

Please advise if I'm on the right track and or if you tried this and found out another path is more practicle. Thanks.