Beginner Investor - Should I get my Real Estate License?

[Dylan Hensley]

I am a New Yorker and considering going after a Real Estate License for a few reasons; to better my understanding of Real Estate and to save money on my own investments while also being able to make money from deals as an agent.

Is it a waste of time and money? Is it worth it? Is it a no brainer to become an agent if I want to be more engulfed in real estate? Can I do this part-time?

ANY ADVICE WILL HELP

[Patricia Steiner]

This question has been raised numerous times on this site.  The fees are pretty substantial to become and then remain an active realtor - and most firms will not allow you to do business "for your own account" without Broker oversight (which negatively impacts commissions and comes with a big dose of micro-managing).  It's not going to get you what you want as an investor...and - as stated previously - part-time realtors have limited to no success.  This isn't a business for people who aren't all in.  And, just to clarify:  a real estate license/course/exam prepares you for nothing.  The learning comes from doing and self-learning after-the-fact.  Successful investors don't have time to deal with realtor issues, continuing ed,etc.  Successful realtors are up at 2:10 a.m. trying to keep their heads above water.  And, many investors have no interest in doing business with realtors who are also active investors due to a perceived/potential conflict of interest.  My recommendation is to choose a lane and leave skid marks...