Bay Area

[Michelle1x]

I've seen a few run down houses in good neighborhoods sell "under the table" recently - where nothing was posted on the MLS that I could see.  Now there is a big dumpster in front of one of them- would being a real estate agent help with this, or does it matter.

[manch]

I would look along the vector of tax benefits. Just having a licence does not mean you are suddenly in the old boy or girls' club where these "under the table" deals got traded. 

[ptiemann]

I got my own license because I am an investor. It has multiple benefits.

- you get some education

I know, everyone likes to compare RE agents with used car salesmen, and supposedly one can learn everything to pass the test in one weekend, but the reality is, you will obtain knowledge preparing for the test

- when dealing with other agents, they will (most likely) recognize you as a professional

- access to more data (MLS) - this subscription costs money, about $1200 a year, since you also need to maintain membership in a local association, CAR and NAR

- possibly save a bit on commission.

[Jil]

ptiemann,

Sent PM, please look at it.