Advantages of having a real estate license as an investor?

[Kevin C.]

Any long time investors out here who decided to become a real estate licensee?

Advantages you get in training are a given; but what are other advantages to being a licensed investor do you have right now vs not having one before.  

PS I'm also not referring to those who were realtors first before they started investing. 

[Joe Funari]

@Kevin C. For years my company acquired investment properties. Thus, eliminating the need for me to have a real estate license. But a good friend, and mentor, @Kyle Mccaw gave me a unique opportunity so I jumped at the chance and earned my license. But keep in mind I already had an opportunity to use my license right away. If you starting from scratch the cost to earn your license, as well as, maintain it is cost prohibitive. The only real advantages for an investor to obtain their license is that you have immediate access to MLS. Thus, you can run your own comprables and not have to wait on another realtor to run them for you. Especially, if you are investing in a non-disclosure state (such as Texas where I work) where getting comps from a realtor is the best way to perform your due diligence. But with the marketplace here on BP has many fellow investor/realtors that are willing to run comps and help you identify properties. Attending networking meetings, posting questions on BP, and just getting out there and acquiring investment properties are less expensive ways to gain an REI education.