I'm partial to Central Florida for its economic growth, higher elevation, and insulation from hurricanes relative to the rest of the state.

@Leo Ferreras - I wouldn't worry about it for your real estate business.Focus on growth and spend your valuable time on your highest dollar producing activities.

ID=22424405419 I've been thinking that we should probably start hanging onto some of our rehabs for long term equity growth, and cash flow monthly.We are into the Wellesley house for about $280,000 plus $20,000 in rehab, for a total of $300,000 (purchase price, rehab, financing costs, holding costs, etc).

7/11 likely dumped a ton of money into research on the area and saw a potential for something (returns, traffic ability, growth, etc).

I was hoping to get into the gentrification growth but it looks like I’ll have to stick closer to home.

When I received the other offer and realized they were with the same brokerage, had the same access to escalation legalese as I did, but didn't use one, I realized how important Bigger Pockets has been to my success and growth.

The city of Allentown has seen a lot of growth over the last few years due to some Neighborhood Improvement Zone incentives.

If I were in a position where I had significantly more units/cashflow or huge cash reserves, I would re-consider, but during the "growth" phase of my rental business I don't want to take the risk of having to pay those kind of expenses out of pocket.  

However at this phase of my business a huge out of pocket expense like replacing siding, roof and decking from a major storm would be enough to really hinder my growth for several years. 

So there is value in having the license in that situation as well.Bottom line and point being, having a license as an investor gives you more options and more opportunities than without it and if you are worried about the costs of getting and holding a license, then your real estate investment goals are not high enough.I do agree trying to do 2 things part time (part time investor, part time agent) is no easy task but having the license does not have to equate to being an agent part time, just using your license for referrals, MLS access, agent contacts, and commissions on your own purchases and sales is more than enough without a full distraction.