You can actually to to the NMLS's consumer access page to look up a lender to check licensing.

Why Choose Parasec- Efficient and Accurate Work- Online Access to Entity Information- Comprehensive Nationwide Solutions- Experts Ready to Support Your Needs- Cost-Effective Services https://matsorensen.com/bois-halted-again-5th-circuit-revers...Customer Testimonial"Your group has always been able to explain confusing government stuff and is very helpful.

First, I have true daily and direct access to the 4 owners of Licensing Experts because apparently they don't and won't deal with a bunch of people. 

I have been accessing the results with no problem in the past, but something has changed on the site.  

If someone represents themselves as private lenders, check them on NMLS consumer access to see if they are licensed.

Contract violation: If the owner doesn’t give access to the site or fails to obtain permits, then it’s possible to end the contract.

But for an OOS investor one consideration is access to support, first of all PM & contractors, and you have more choices in the much larger Milwaukee metro area than in a smaller submarket.

LMK if you need any help accessing those tools on BiggerPockets.

Many investors get their license for access to MLS and/or to save money on real estate commissions when they buy & sell.It's a good strategy, but only if you are doing VOLUME!

Consider the family who’ll eventually live there..maybe they’ll appreciate a second-floor deck accessible from a common hallway, where everyone can enjoy it, rather than limiting it to a single bedroom.