New Member Introduction to the group...

[Darrell May]

I'm a new member looking to learn and get advice and learn as much as I can. I am located in Austin Texas. The market here is crazy making it really hard to find a property the works to buy. I'm not opposed to buying long distance, but I'm curious as to what are some good ways to judge what's a good area to purchase and rent in and what is not? I could tell you what is hot here in Austin, but not In Boise Idaho. I look forward to learning more and making my first purchase soon! Thanks for any advice! I am curious to know how many of you are realtors or working to become one? I really have no interest in becoming one, but I am studying to take the test just to learn more about the business. 

[Lara White]

@Darrell May I agree with @Ryan Kelly if you don't have plans/want to become a Realtor...don't waste your time on the licensing classes (wasted money and time unless you want to be an agent of course)!  Just like a lot of traditional schooling...you don't learn as much as you think you would.  And you'll hear over and over...most Realtors don't know a lot about real estate investing itself.  One Realtor I know very well is always telling me that I think too much like an investor! lol!! They can have totally different mindsets. I became a Realtor and I did learn about real estate in general of course, but I had to get most of my investing knowledge from different resources (like Bigger Pockets forums, reading books, talking to other investors themselves). That being said, it could be a great side hustle if you are able to devote the time to it.