Any advantage to becoming a Mortgage Originator?

[Rob Lehmann]

After referring numerous people to my favorite mortgage broker I've recently tossed around the idea of becoming a broker myself. Ideally, it would be a semi part-time thing for me, mostly originating loans for other investors but I am sure that some of my local contacts would also bring me some business as well.

There are a few things that I am unclear on that hopefully some of you brokers out there could help me with.

1. Would I be able to broker loans for myself, thereby saving myself some closing costs and be able to have a bit more control?
2. Are there any other benefits/disadvantages to being both a broker and an investor that I may not be considering?
3. How feasible is it to make this a part-time gig rather than a full-time job?
4. Once licensed, how would I make contact with underwriters if I am just working as a small operation for myself?

Thanks ahead of time for any help and advice!