While I've been doing this for a while, I've always used safe and traditional loans with my local CU.

It has a rich history and is designated as an Historic Area.

@Brandon Hall I'm not a big fan of buying into "cheap real estate"  You don't get rich by buying sh*t.  

I'd like to hear more about your experience so far and your plan/goals moving forward.My top 2 recommendations to new members are always to read the Rich Dad Poor Dad book, and to check out Josh and Brandon's weekly podcast.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill was also instrumental in my early (and continuing) financial education.

title should say advice to become a realtor and do it the traditional way or a "wholesale agent" as described above.

While is is traditional to go through the agent if it is listed, you are under no obligation to do so.

14 years later I read "Rich Dad/Poor Dad" and thought that was a good idea...then life happened and still nothing.  6 years later I read it again and finally got the burning desire to get out of the Rat Race!  

I don't need to be stupid rich, but I would like to be financially comfortable with the freedom to live my life on my terms.

There are many places to get loans other than traditional mortgages; like hard money lenders, or private lenders.