We're working toward financial independence so the question really comes down to increased cash flow vs. decreased liabilities. 

One of the main reasons why I want to do real estate is because after losing my job last because to a merger, I wanted to have another way to provide for my family and to reach financial independence one day.My goal is to become a buy and hold investor, buying duplexes and multi-families in my area and possibly out of state. 

Maybe, you could help with insurance for the business, but my guess is that most real estate agents are independent contractors and do not have large businesses.

I'm also unaware of schools but I'd say I made it out of Killeen Independent School District unscathed ha.

My end goal is to have passive income and financial independence when I finish my career (I love my job, don't want to leave early).But as I was saying; I already have a BS and now have a chance to get my masters.

It is helpful to be an agent to evaluate things independently, but if you want to do it for just one property it probably isn't worth it.

He provides the following:4 studio apartments @ $1,000 per month4 one-bedroom apartments @ $1,250 per month4 two-bedroom apartments @ $1,500 per month4 two-bedroom apartments @ $1,800 per monthProperty taxes, $40,000 per yearInsurance, $15,000 per yearWater and sewer, $12,500 per yearElectricity for common area lighting, $2,800 per year"You confirm the rents by examining the leases and you verify independently that the expenses are accurate as quoted."

I am an independent insurance agent, the kind you referred to who "Shop around".  

Some people want to develop their own real estate empire, others just want financial independence. 

I'm at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp.