Real Estate License for Property manager

[Vincent M.]

Hi everyone, 

Am new here and trying to read / learn as much as I can at the moment.  I run a small property mgmt biz for a landlord who has 20 units. I basically manage his units for him. Not a full time gig at any level - but looking to build on it.  I noticed this past year, we had quite a few vacancies, where we engaged a real estate agent to find tenants. This turned into a pretty decent chunk of change for the agent.  

I am trying to figure out, if it is possible to take the class, get my license and then get access to MLS to post these vacancies when needed. I am sure the cost of MLS and the cost for me to get licenced will be well covered by the savings over a couple of years. The work that the agent does is show the units, and put any applicant through the NTN application system, which I would want to get access to also. I make the decision on the tenants, based on meeting them and the results of the application report.

Any agents out there - please do not take this as that agents (or my agent) does not do a good job - not my feeling or the situation at all!! . I just feel there is opportunity to save on these costs and divert to my pocket

My only question - or I guess where i am not overly familiar, do I need to work with a Real estate firm in NY to do this, or can I do it independently. ?  I really don't want to work with a real estate firm, as I have more than enough on my plate (2 other small businesses) I just trying to figure out how to avoid paying a month's rent to an agent every time I needed a tenant.  

what do you guys think?

regards

Vincent