Should I get my license?

[Ryan Dosenberry]

I should start by saying I have already taken the course and passed the state licensing exam. So naturally I feel inclined to pull the trigger since I've already invested all of that time. I live in Michigan if that makes any difference. My investment strategy looks something like this 1) Start direct mail campaign / generate website leads 2) wholesale and co-wholesale deals to start. I have a mentor that will analyze my first few deals and go in 50-50 with me if he finds buyer. 3) Once I've built some capital do some rehab deals 4) Get into buy and holds, BRRRRR Strategy / multi family

I'm sure this strategy sounds familiar to many investors out there. My question is, should I move forward with getting my real estate license? I know there are advantages and disadvantages. Some people argue having your license is an advantage to have MLS access, being able to see retail properties easily w/o an agent. If I do come across leads from my DM campaigns that would be better suited for a RE agent services, I could pursue these deals and list them instead of buy/wholesale/etc.

On the flip side I've also heard it sort of defeats the entire purpose of your business if you do both.  If you are spending time being an agent, it would take away from your investor business.  However, it seems like as long as you keep the two separate, and always disclose you're an agent there shouldn't be a problem.   Lastly, when it comes to direct mail,  if I'm a licensed agent and I'm sending out a targeted DM campaign to buy distressed properties (not list them), would I need to include my brokerage logo & info on my advertising?  I know anytime I'm advertising a property or my services as an RE agent I must do this, but curious how it works when you are marketing exclusively as an investor. 

Sorry for the long-winded post, as you can see I've been going back and forth with this for quite some time now!

[Quito Keutla]

I've been licensed for 15years and just stared doing wholesaling about a year ago.  For me I like the fact that I can get access to the comps, leads through expired and cancell listings and have access to preview homes to get a good indept understanding of micro markets in my area.  Also networking with other agents are great as I've sold a couple of my wholesale properties through other agents and also acquire wholesale deal as well.  Most agents don't understand wholesaling and over look the opportunity to pick up a deal themselves. 

If I find that the margins aren't there for a wholesale I'll pick it up as a traditional listing.  The disclosure to the seller that you are an agent is not an issue for most sellers, as long as you're transparent of your intentions.

It is not necessary to startout with a license and having one doesn't hurt either.  If you do get licensed you could even help friends and family buy a house while you're at it.  

Happy Investing!!