I really don't understand the law forbidding that.First time in our lives we are in financial difficulty and want to take out a small loan on a home that is worth at least 6 times more and paid off.But if I didn't live in my home I could.

Check out the member search area under Network to find local members.I too decided to get my broker license after having difficulty finding one that understood investors.  

2) How difficult is it to work on a flip project in the winter?

I currently work in Information Technology from 8am-6pm and will now add REI to my after-hours life.

There are costs associated with not only getting your license but maintaining it as well - MLS, technology dues, local realtor associations etc.  

@Thomas HartBuilding a website is fairly easy now due to the changes in technology.

I have also found some of their "deals" where they have an MLS listed property under contract and are trying to "wholesale" it above the MLS list price. 2 weeks ago one of their acquisition specialists called me to see if I had any properties I was having difficulty finding buyers for.

That will be the time that most people look to retire and many, many people these days have difficulty retiring due to company downsizing, insufficient retirement savings and the inflatined cost of living. 

It looks like i'll have to deal with the bureaucracy which is going to delay me for weeks, seems like they are operating 30 years behind as far as technology and communication.  

Let technology work in your favor. 8.