17-year-old Investor Seeking Advice

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Hi guys,
I'm a senior in high school and I am very interested and very serious about investing in real estate. I understand some of the basic concepts of real estate investing, but I do not understand how to go about finding good investment properties and how to invest in such a property when I find one (Can anyone recommend a book for this?). What are the benefits of flipping vs. renting properties? I pointed out my age to make it clear that I do not have a lot of money, so I was hoping someone could point me in the right direction to go from here. Perhaps some recommended books regarding the "need to knows" about mortgages, incorporating properties, etc. From what I understand one of the best places to look for real estate properties in my local area is the classified ads in the home/real estate section of the newspaper, but I would appreciate it if someone could correct me if I am mistaken. I don't know much now, but I'm willing to learn :wink: . Thank you :D !

P.S. I live in the Dallas, Texas area so if anybody knows of a real estate investors group nearby where a young, novice investor like me would be welcome to ask and learn, I would appreciate it. Feel free to contact me for this or any other reason. Any feedback regarding this post would be overwhelmingly appreciated. Thanks again!