Take all the pros and cons and monetize them over time, and you can see what would be a better option.

Advantages:MLS useEasier to network with other agents for pocket listingsFinding deals on the MLSBeing able to list property / monetize the lead if they are not motivated enough to sell for cashProtects you in case of the whole legal vs. not legal to wholesale without a license debateSet up searches to learn the areas you are looking in and have your finger on the pulse of the marketDisadvantages:Cost moneyTakes time to study for tests, pass tests, submit paperworkMust disclosure at all times that you are a licensed agent

Learn to use your research time accurately by creating a gameplan that allows you to have multiple "options" or "multiple properties you will try to acquire"  bigger net increases your chances of success.3.STOP researching a week prior the auction.Let me hear some thoughts,  if you agree and lets start a conversation if enough people agree of have questions like "no **** sherlock,  but how do you do that, I'll gladly share my "game plan"Fyi: I spent 5 years as a paralegal doing foreclosures for financial institutions, then 7 managed a foreclosure department on a financial institution, worked as a consultant / due diligence expert buying nonperforming notes, then monetizing them by selling at auction and buying at auction...Any help i can give i would be happy to share and learn as well from the folks here at this awsome forumbest regards!

This will elevate your stature as a professional and open up a lot more opportunities for you to monetize deals you can’t buy or wholesale.You should talk to a real estate attorney that works with investors in your area to ensure you are in compliance with any laws.

This will elevate your stature as a professional and open up a lot more opportunities for you to monetize deals you can’t buy or wholesale.

Meanwhile, it looks like they are busy trying to find more ways to monetize their base - like building their "roofstockacademy" and charging $1700+ for it.  

Many people who don't have tax liability choose to use a 3rd party option such as a lease or PPA in order to monetize the tax credit so that's always an option. 

There are ways to monetize the ITC on investment property such as using a 3rd party that can take the tax credit and pass the savings on, like in a PPA or lease situation, but those options have some drawbacks such as clouding the title with a UCC-1 fixture filing (kind of like a lien) which isn't a benefit during transfer of title as in during a sale.

Or when listings have hidden lots under them or certain zonings that can be monetized.. 

Had a client just today paying $785/yr in insurance for a $50k midwest duplex with $300/mo net positive cashflow. $800/yr would be the insurance on a $700k triplex netting that same landlord $2000/mo...