Best way to get started?

[Laurie Falk]

Hi, I've read some forums on this already, but would love to see if I can get some additional feedback, and maybe even some specific to my area.

I am working on getting my real estate license in Virginia and interested in suggestions from current agents. Initially, I was thinking starting this as a side gig and to have access to the MLS for getting into real estate investing. Now, I'm thinking that maybe I'd be interested in doing it more than that but I do not want to quit my full time job now. I know the challenges of trying to start part time and am willing to put in the time and effort to be successful. What types of brokerages should I aim to find to get started? I understand some of the advantages/disadvantages of big versus small, but am having a difficult time deciding where the best starting point is for where I am. Anyone in the Richmond, VA area been successful in tackling this?

Thanks!

[Rich Lennon]

I would recommend talking to Keven Randesi with 804 Real Estate.  He has  firm of about 4-5 agents and is actively seeking to expand.  I am a full time investor in the Richmond market, and Keven is one of the few real estate agents who seem to understand what I am trying to do.  If you want to be an investor/agent he would be great.

Side note:  I have been watching the Richmond market closely the past several years.  I would continue in a part time roll until we see the data for third and fourth quarter 2017.  The market is strong here, but might be near the top.  Depending on what happens after the election Richmond might very well cool off, making it more difficult for a full time agent (but more profitable for an investor).