The course was $400 plus around $200 for other incidentals and the state test.Costs to maintain license isn't cheap: Broker - $65 per month...Realtor Board annual dues - $400...Quarterly MLS dues - $109...EKey Services (about $100 for setup) and $205 per year....so broken down monthly you are looking at - $151/month.

anyone done business with any of the companies in Dallas Texas offering turn key rental properties?

That would be a plus, but just taking this class will broaden your thinking which is the key in making deals, deals come from ideas and selecting the appropriate methods to transact any business.

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I guess that is one of the key points I would say is make sure you are honest with yourself, is it an investment first or a second home first?

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However, I highly recommend just VERY POLITELY, going over to the house with your best smile on and simply offer cash for keys.

Most board contracts have a clause stating that the contract can not be assigned without the sellers written consent.

Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.

Try bandit signs (purchase corrugated board at the Dollar Store and hand write 'we buy houses cash'.