I tried to talk him into picking an area to study the market but he suggested we get our criteria from a buyer and look for what they want.

I've called around and it's like I'm speaking a different language whenever I query about those two services :-).Thanks much...

@Taylor Silker   IF = the biggest word in the English language. 

it sounds like you need to find an experienced partner or do some more research and education...... no offense but you don’t seem to know some of the basics ..... and that’s ok...... but maybe study some more and practice running numbers or find some one to help you.

Study hard and make it hapoen

I have an idea that could make you pocket you some quick dough in our tech driven info age:Develop an app for finding absentee owners using someone on Fiverr or some techie in India for cheapCall it something snazzy like "Absentee Owner Gold"Market it like crazy online and make it available on Google Play and the Apple Store and anywhere else applicable for a cheap price like $1.99 with no refunds Have customer support via email or phone only in some foreign country where english is a fourth languageTech/info driven real estate investors buy it in drovesThey open the app and a message pops up "knock on some of the neighbors doors"Frustrated customers call/email customer support and get further frustrated by the inability to communicate with foreign customer service whose english is a fourth language but they string the customer along anyway thus buying you time to make more salesKeep it up for as long as it takes to make 6 or 7 figures Close up shop and disappear

Meet People with Experiences Similar to Your Own: There are many organizations (both free and paid) out there that you can join such as BiggerPockets forums, local real estate meetup groups, The Entrepreneur's Organization, your local AICPA group, etc. that gives you a place to receive advice, guidance, problems and ideas.Utilize the R&D Tax Credit: Your business could receive a 10-20% refund for employee labor that’s associated with improving a product or process.Utilize Employee Retention Tax Credits: If your employees that worked for your business during the pandemic are retained through the end of 2021, your business could receive up to $9,000 each quarter that your employees were retained.Own Your Own Office: This would allow you to have multiple tax deductions, utilize depreciation, take advantage of appreciation of the property, as well as allow your company to rent out any unused space to help pay the mortgage.Take Advantage of Energy Efficient Tax Credits: There are many opportunities to take advantage of these credits such as updating the HVAC system, installing energy efficient lighting, etc.Perform a Cost Segregation Study on Your Property: This would allow your business to immediately write off the personal property within the building.Utilize Work Opportunity Tax Credits: If you hire employees from groups that typically face a barrier when it comes to employment such as people with physical or mental disabilities, veterans, etc. your small business could receive a tax credit while also helping the underserved.Use the SCORE program: This program is free and connects you with resources, and mentors and specifically focuses on helping small business owners excel.

Don't forget about the lead paint disclosure in MA.Additionally, if you plan on holding a security deposit make sure to study the rules and regulations very closely.

I get that it probably isn't worth it to get the license if you are just trying to save the 3% in fees but I feel like if I'm willing to put in time on my own to learn more about RE and already be studying it as a hobbie, I might as well make it official and get the license.

If you need money to make it at first then get a W2 and study on the side.