I have a license but never use it...Pros/Cons of keeping it?

[Matt W.]

Hi BP, 

A few years ago, when first getting serious about investing, I had the time and opportunity so I got my North Carolina real estate license.  Since then, as I have learned more, I have determined that having a license isn't necessary for the type of investing I want to do. I also do not think the lifestyle of a professional full time agent will ever work for my family and me, so I do not plan on ever jumping in with both feet as would be required to be a successful "conventional" agent. 

The fees just to maintain the license are only @$50/year, so that is not a deciding factor. I plan in the future to just use a skilled and experienced investor-minded agent and gladly pay their commission.  

I've heard there are additional liability issues if you are licensed, but it sounds like those issues usually involve defrauding or taking advantage of a seller and concealing the fact that you are an agent. I will always conduct myself with integrity and honesty, so I would not hide the fact that I am licensed.  I also put that fact in writing on all my contracts and leases and have the other party sign to acknowledge. 

The only advantage I can foresee is one day in the future, when I am experienced enough to buy without using an agent (assuming I find the deal myself), is I could pay myself a commission to either use towards a down payment or just keep. 

Any licensed investors out there that aren't part of a bigger brokerage/agency? Let me know your thoughts!

Thanks!