To License or not to License... That is the question

[Justin D' Apolito]

I am a New York based new-ish investor working to expand. I have been kicking around the idea of getting my license in New York even though I am not actively looking at real estate in NY or do I really intend to get a job as an agent. I figure it could be a good educational tool and potential for some additional income in the form of referrals, and my own purchase commissions. Also, it would give me access to the MLS so I could search for on market property on my own. Is this a big dumb waste of time and money? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!