If you don't want to hand your SSN out to 20 different institutions, a local independent mortgage broker will be able to run your credit once and show you wholesale rate/fee options from dozens of banks and lenders.

I'm independent, no debt, no student loans, very low tuition (with financial aid grants), rent of $500 per month, credit score above 750 and a small chunk of change saved up in the amount of $15,000. 

I've been in the Air Force for the past 10 years and I'm hoping to use this as a means to becoming financially independent by the time I retire in another ten years so that I can focus on what makes me happy rather than what pays the bills.I am currently living in the Richmond, VA area, where I own a home that I will be renting out in another year or so when I leave here.If anyone has any advice, I am all ears and I look forward to participating in these forums!

With student loans and other expenses, I was hesitant to take the risk.So, with the BiggerPockets and my independent research, I see that wholesaling is a great way to gain capital, which would help with my startup.

The proliferation of independent owners dilutes any possibility of uniformity.

To receive referral fees, does my license need to be under a brokerage, or can I receive the referral fee if I'm just independent? 

I understand it's best to hire an independent inspector

Another downside is some students are entitled and/or not as independent as the typical renter - thus you must account for them contacting you more often if you decide to self-manage.  

For example starting payroll, filling W-9 for independent contractors, tax rules, bookkeeping e.t.c?

I'm pretty independent so if I was already out and away from the property I would tell him to sue me for it.