Is it a good idea to get a real estate licence?

[Matthew J. T.]

I'm wondering if it's better to get a licence just to have my own personal access to MLS. How long does it usually take? I'm getting kind of tired of having to ask a REALTOR every single time to pull comps for me, also you never know about these free sites. Is it worth it to get your own licence just so you can use it for your own personal comps etc..? If not than how do you pull comps and get a decent estimate of the house (ARV)? Also, let's say I am licenced, does that mean I have to work FOR somebody to have access to MLS or once you are licenced you automatically have access? Because I don't plan on actually being a "REALTOR/broker/agent" I just plan on getting licenced to have access to MLS? Good idea? Any suggestions?

[James Vermillion]

In my state there is an agent license (96 hours of coursework) and a broker license (way more hours and 2 years of experience as an agent required). I am a licensed agent; therefore I have to be associated with a broker. I have found and closed on several properties that I would not have been able to close on without being my own agent...and I have saved thousands is the process. My classes cost me $600 plus the $100 to take the exam, $18 for an FBI background check. Our MLS also charges a fee for membership, but I saved well over my costs in just one deal alone. The education is bonus!