There are a lot of good, smart, hardworking folks trying to tell legislators that 1031s mean a great deal to the economy.   

Every legislative session, many proposals are being brought forward such as disallowing the use or credit scores and criminal checks(as this is clearly a form of discrimination), creating a state uniform application process, rent control, etc.

It wasn't always that way (as a suggestion) but yes, we are moving towards (albeit slowly in some areas more than others) towards legislation being that having your professional license in most every state is not only helpful, but in some states (like where wholesaling is illegal), necessary to to stay lawful when moving transactions.

Hopefully it stays there and dies off as similar legislation has in previous years.

I have been wondering, especially with new legislation in the works, should I just go ahead and get my realtor's license?

Also of note although I do not believe there is a specified hold period in the tax legislation some QIs will require a minimum hold (this helps prove that the intent was to utilize as a long term passive income investment opposed to active flip income).

That could really help you anticipate where to buy in terms of the path of progress.Lastly, I'd look at the legislation trends.

Check the area and surrounding area for legislation on STRs.

In my experience, charging a non-refundable pet damage fee (as permitted by your local real estate legislation), pet rent, and verifying background, income, and previous landlord references is a good way to mitigate the risk of a bad cat.

This legislation may be very misguided, but having trouble seeing why anyone would put a unit up for rent, then turn away an applicant who meets all their criteria.