Hey there - I run a small software business and have been thinking about how to best re-invest some of the profits.On the one hand, software/technology is probably a bit higher growth than real estate in general, and maybe I could see a higher ROI by re-investing in the business.  

Basically - what is the relation between cost of living (including housing) and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) pay. 

Other than a technology fee and paying the commission fees, are there any direct costs to the buyer?

However, I have heard stories of agents who have excellent technology/marketing skills that have quickly done so.

Just technologically challenged!

If you get into technology and can program you can turn that skill into many dollars by the time that you're 18 so you can get a gig and turn those gigs into your first deal by 18.5 or 19 years of age. 

Is this a good way to find deals above beyond mls -are there any reia's that use technology or phone conferences so I could join remotely?

There technology is solid and their stuff WORKS, which is job 1 for a phone service - it HAS TO WORK 100% of the time, flawlessly.  

I'm not an IT developer, more of a sever/systems guy but I use technology to keep me straight with my investing.

LOL, I'm technologically deficient!