New to Investing: License or no License?

[Mariam Berr]

I would like my first home to be an investment. I don't see any deals on Zillow or other websites. I've been doing a lot of research and wondering are all the good deals on the MLS?

I did consider getting a real estate agent but conflicted as I have a very particular taste and I don't want any pressure to buy as I am in no hurry. If the numbers don't make sense I simply won't buy.

How do investors go about this? 

Also since I am new to all of this if you guys have any book or podcast suggestions please let me know! Thanks!