I just figured getting my license would be useful in terms of access to MLS and what not.

I suggest getting a home equity line or selling one of your properties as way to get access to more money.  

Most people don't have access to that kind of money or they don't want to use it. 

I'm using my agency strictly for access to the MLS. 

I've read having your License is a great tool for starting out, learning some of the business, and opens up tools and resources. two questions for either bird dogging, becoming a landlord, or considering house flipping, 1)  Is this a good step to take early on.2) is there a simple path to take to get access to the resources?

Everything seems expensive or maybe I'm not looking correctly...I'm looking around Waldo since my wife works close to Waldo and Waldo seems safe with access to shops and such.Keep us updated on your search!

If you are already doing a full gut remodel and ripping open drywall or plaster, then that is a great time to do this upgrade since you already have it open and accessible. 

If you are looking to flip there's easier access to money than selling the performing rental properties.

Then you can use a HELOC to access the rest of you equity, in most cases up to 90% LTV.

Also note that if you click on NETWORK in the menu at the top of the web page, you can access a list of lenders.