Is getting a Real Estate License worth it?

[Hunter Hughes]

I have been interested in investing in real estate for a few years now but have not really been in a place to act on it until pretty recently (I just graduated college). And now that I am done with school, I would like to get my foot into the real estate world.

I had the idea to get my real estate license as a way to get into the industry, learn more about investing, and to make some extra side cash as well. However, I am unsure if it really makes any sense for me because of the job I have. I am a Petroleum Engineer with a job where I work 14 days and then have 7 days off (I am away from home those 14 days I work). I was hoping being an agent would help me stay busy on my week off, but I don’t know if that would give me enough time to work with clients on any sizable deals.

Please let me know your thoughts. Would this end up being a waste of my time and money? Or would it be possible to manage my time and still be able to make even a little extra money on the side?

[Kurt Barnhart]

Been wondering the same thing. There are books and online classes that make it easy to become an agent, and being an agent might increase your cred (and knowledge) when you invest. BUT, being a professional might also change your tax structure and liability. So, I’d try to talk to both a CPA and a real estate attorney before you decide.