I have a full-time job that's fortunately remote, but I'd like to get involved in real estate on a part-time basis to begin.I really just want access to the MLS. 

The checking account is under my business name and they are added as an authorized user on that individual account but don’t have access to the other accounts that I have.

It depends on how you measure "deals are better"  Some of the measures access to entertainment & access to business corridors which results in low vacancy rates.

What advice can you give a newbie like myself that just wants access to quick, affordable, reliable information?

The pick the tenants and own the upgrades required for access.

I guess it would be a matter of easement for access.

They are very strict and monitor to find and shut down unauthorized STRs.

You’ll find plenty of friendly, knowledgeable people willing to respond to your posts.I really like the alerts feature that can quickly guide you to current topics that may be of interest: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsThere are a few self-contained guides that you can access here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides

Hi team,I originally obtained my Oregon RE Broker license in order to have access to the MLS and to be able to run accurate comps for my investing purposes - not to assist people in buying/selling property.

In my opinion, getting the license is a pretty big time (90 hrs pre-licensing courses + exams) and money (between courses and MLS access expect close to 1k startup, maybe less for limited broker) commitment if you haven't gotten into real estate yet.