RE license vs. Wholesaling

[Amy E.]

I recently began liquidating my half dozen SFR's. I am just not cut out to be in property management, although generally it has gone really well and I've made a decent ROI. I found an investment company to buy all my properties in one big hunk. The investment company is international, but use a realtor from my state to handle closings, paperwork, find properties, etc.

After chatting up the buyer's realtor, it turns out they are looking for someone in my area to find appropriate homes to purchase (they are located about an hour away from me).  They offered to pay for my realtor's license and classes and to sponsor me.  They basically want me to find houses that make good investments to they can sell to their investors.

I had actually thought about getting my license years ago with the intent to eventually have a property management company; but determined I am not really cut out to have to deal with clients/tenants all day.  This seems like a good compromise.  I get to stay in the business and do the fun part (finding good deals), am not dealing with clients directly, and still get to make a bit of cash on the side (note: I still have a regular 9-5).

Anyway, I was wondering if there are pitfalls I should look out for before moving forward.  What are the benefits of doing this vs. contacting investors directly and simply being a wholeseller (other than the fact I only know the one investor!)?  What type of money does a wholeseller make vs. a realtor on a typical deal?  In this type of relationship, what type of commission would go to me vs. my broker sponsor (I know this will vary a lot, I'm just looking for a ball park).  Do realtor's pay their broker's by year for sponsorship (or deal, etc.)?

Any tips or thoughts appreciated.