I know that if I had my real estate license it would be much easier to help him, which is a goal. 

You will need to get a STR license but they are not hard to get and over 800 are still available. 

Disclaimer first, I am not a licensed contractor.  

Thanks in AdvanceHey John,  I'm licensed agent in kentucky, and just recently relocated in california and licensed agent in california as well. 

Disclaimer: While I’m a licensed attorney, I’m not your attorney.

I plan on getting my realtors license and flipping/ investing into properties.

You can also get a RE license (not that you need one, but just to gain knowledge) or go work at a RE office as a clerk or Gofer.#2 - Start going to events like those at Home Depot on Saturdays, where they show you how to tile, or other basic trade tasks. volunteer to help friends, volunteer for a Habitat For Humanity project.

Here in Illinois, people are required to have a license.

I am a licensed loan officer and would happily help you navigate this situation to the best of my abilities.

HI David..Someone in your office will need to obtain their NMLS Mortgage brokerage license but we have a complete system for RE professionals like Agents, Tax Professionals, Attorneys and Builders that enable you to be involved and compensated without the full responsibility of processing loans (which is not fun!)