Suggestions for California Real Estate License Courses?

[Paul Munly]

I'm planning to enroll in an online real estate licensing course to obtain my real estate license in California and am trying to decide upon two things -- first, the course provider. Do you have any recommendations? 

Second, I'm debating which course to take as my 'elective' course. I'm leaning toward a 'Legal Aspects of California Real Estate' course, but want to know if there are any topics I should consider instead. 

I'm planning to obtain my license primarily to assist with finding and buying off-market properties, which is why I'm leaning toward the 'Legal Aspects' elective. If you have experience with finding, buying, and selling off-market properties, what other courses should I consider? 

[Account Closed]

Originally posted by @Paris Beitel:

Are you looking to have access to the MLS or work as an agent? Either way the state of CA requires that you pay dues to your local association, CAR, NAR, MLS, Sentrilock, etc. About $3500 /year upfront to use the MLS AFTER paying all of the dues. In order to do this you MUST be under a BROKER and pay monthly for a small space.

 Completely false information. The State of CA does not require you to become a Realtor. You can be an agent (not a realtor) for free.

If you want MLS access and a Supra key lockbox, it makes a lot of sense to become a REALTOR, by joining your local Realtor association (in addition to NAR and CAR). All in, about $1500/year including everything: Zipforms, Supra Key, etc. No idea where Paris got the $3500/year fee, but she is getting majorly ripped off.

Also, you are not required to pay a desk fee to a broker. If you don't need a desk, work from home. I am doing my own deals (like you) and I hung my license with RE eBroker in San Diego. 100% split, $0 desk fees, $0 monthly fees, just a $500 per transaction fee.