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Are you an investor considering obtaining your real estate license?
Many real estate investors wonder if they should get their licenses. There are several perks to having one, but it all depends on whether it is worth it to you. Acquiring a real estate license is a time-consuming and expensive investment. Therefore, it helps to learn the pros and cons.
The Pros of Getting a Real Estate License
1. Gain Access to MLS
The major benefit of having a real estate license is your access to MLS (multiple listing services).
MLS can provide you with valuable data on potential investment properties. However, this shouldn’t be your only reason to obtain a license since the MLS isn’t free.
However, the MLS database will be an invaluable resource for your investment business if you don’t mind paying the fees.
2. Make Your Own Commissions
Each time an investor sells through a buying agent, the investor has to pay them a commission on the sale.
However, a real estate license means you get to represent yourself and receive a portion of your commission. This extra income is nice to have, especially on larger deals.
3. Have More Control Over the Deal
Agents are in charge of communication with the involved parties. Additionally, they control your property’s marketing and presentation, impacting the buyer’s perception of the property’s value.
You will be more in control with your own license, speeding up your offers, which is crucial in such a competitive market.
The Cons of Getting a Real Estate License
1. It’s Expensive
Real estate agents pay out of pocket for various annual fees, which could dip into your profits as an investor.
However, it depends on the negotiation of your payments and expenses with your broker. The fees involved in being a real estate agent typically include:
- MLS
- Lockboxes
- Office expenses
- Realtor designation
- Percentage of commission that goes to your broker
When you don’t have any investment deals for the first year or two, these fees can significantly impact your income each year.
2. The Timing to Get a License
Becoming a licensed real estate agent is no easy feat. In fact, it takes much dedication and work to obtain one.
For example, it can take up to 120 hours of class time before passing the test – depending on your state. In addition to acquiring a license, you must earn continuing education credits through dozens of hours each year to retain one.
All these hours take time away from actual investments in your business.
3. Handling Paperwork
More deals mean more paperwork. For example, you’re responsible for writing and submitting forms to agents, brokers, lawyers and the MLS.
However, if paperwork truly bothers you, you can outsource this work to others. Still, some investors find this daunting due to the time constraints.
Should You Get Your Real Estate License?
Getting a real estate license has its benefits and downfalls. Is it worth it to you? Do the pros outweigh the cons? If so, then it might be what you need to do to move forward.
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About The Author
Evelyn is the founder and editor-in-chief of Renovated with over 5 years of experience researching and writing about home living. Her passion project is writing about the real estate market and home staging. Her other passion projects include reading and exploring Lancaster for the best coffee shops.
Evelyn's work has been featured on National Association of Realtors, McKissock, Insights for Professionals, Appraisal Buzz, and Commercial Truck Trader.
For more articles from Evelyn, you can follow her on Twitter at @renovatedmag.
