Property Management In Arizona

[Walker Gibbin]

I am interested in buying a few multifamily properties and starting a property management company in greater Phoenix area.

I have learned that in order to be a property manager you need to also be a real estate broker. I have no problem with going through the hoops and tests and fees but the fact that you need to work as a real estate agent for 3 years before you can become a broker is a huge annoyance.

I read that if you live on site you do not need a license to work as a property manager. Am I interpreting the law correctly?

This would still limit me to one building so my second question is if its possible to technically work as a real estate agent but not actually work as a real estate agent. Will any company just let me get "experience" with them for a few years as I set up my complex and business?

With my goal in mind does anyone have any other advice? I am still doing research and really don't plan on moving on any of this for at least another year.