Hello,I'm not looking to do Real Estate full time or represent others. The purpose of obtaining my license is to purchase and sell on my behalf but primarily to gain access to MLS. Can I do this without a broker? Any advice?Sorry if my question is skewed or incorrect, I'm in my early 20s and I'm looking to begin investing in property and I feel like there is no downside in getting my real estate license. I lack the experience and knowledge but am aware of that. I just want to make sure it's beneficial.Thanks for your guidance and patience! Any and all help is greatly appreciated.
A license by itself does not grant MLS access. MLS is a commercial service provided to BROKERS. You'd need to be a licensed agent working for a broker.
Once you have your license and have a broker you can join your local MLS and even other MLS that are outside your area but within your state. The fees vary for each MLS. And no it is not required for an agent to belong to any association like NAR and CAR. Many years ago an agent was required to be a Realtor (member of NAR) in order to use the MLS but that requirement was struck down by the courts as restraint of trade and a monopoly, however most California brokers do require their agents to be a member both the NEA, CAR, and local MLS.
You will need to hang your license with a broker, and you will need to join your local, state and national associations in order to have MLS access and the ability to use lockboxes and receive commissions. Please explain very clearly to any potential broker what it is you would like to do. Most good brokers will not accept someone who does not intend to make real estate sales a career. And just getting your license does not mean that you know enough to write contracts and see them through to completion - you will need additional training.
Your license isn't valid without being under a broker, and that brokers insurance. A broker has to be legally responsible for you. So yes, you will need to be under a broker, as well as a member to the local RE board, to access the MLS.
