I'm thinking of getting a realtor license (in PA) to represent myself on purchasing rentals/investment properties.The benefits are meaningful:-Main benefit: Get 3% of the purchase price as cash (or a portion of the 3%) -Flexibility of showing yourself in when shopping, no need to schedule with a buyer's agent-Write up as many low ball offers as you wish without having to deal with a buyer's agentSome questions come to mind:-What are the one time costs for getting a license?

I know there isn't a crystal ball to see what the market will do, but use the last 5 years as a reference. 

So the ball is rolling again.Thanks to all for the input thus far!

The listing agent had dropped the ball, and we knew this would cut out a lot of lazy potential investors. 

If you throw a ball at the wall and it doesn't stick what do you do??

It cracks me up every time I show up at a real estate auction, and everyone else is dressed in suits, driving high end brand new vehicles they really cant afford, and I roll up in my 12 year old SUV, wearing shorts, a hoodie and ball cap... then I say F*** You by buying the property for cash and walking off. 

If I were you, I'd low ball them if you really want it..have your max number and do not go beyond that...well worth giving it a try.

Also kind of ball park curious about the cost of renovating a 1000 sq ft home for rent in Richmond California.

You would have to low ball both of these properties work for you.

Spit-balling it, I estimate I would spend (at most) $5,000 per unit.