Flipping Houses: I have cash but no knowledge

[Richard Wilson]

So where do I start?

I have actually posted here prior to, but got caught up in the 9-5 family lifestyle ... Work, sports on the weekends with my little guy, and family time in general ... I want to flip houses!  I know how you read that ... This guys thinks that you can get rich quick flipping houses - because they exclamation points adds emphasis, but in realty I'm not even looking to make as much as I do from my 9-5.  I am fortunate in life, inherited some funds, an watching them barely outpace inflation, all tied up in securities.  I want to make them work ... I want to be able to spend more time with my little guy ... I want to actually be able to pick him up from school at some point.

I have zero, or very close to zero knowledge in the realm of real estate, but I know I want to buy and flip.  I don't want to be a landlord, and I do not want a mortgage.  I'll be completely transparent.  I have little over $500,000 I am willing to invest, but for my first few deals, would like to keep this close to 20% of or 40% (including rehab).  So I'd like to spend maybe no more than $200,000 altogether on a flip, and walk away with $20-30k profit (gross).  Is this asking too much?  Or is this a realistic goal?  Oh yeah, and I would like to do this, maybe three to four times a year, but three being the goal.  

I am willing to hear all.  Shared stories, I'll read them.  If you point to a book, I'll get it.  Have a seminar or meet up in NYC/NJ area, I'll get to it.  I am eager to learn, and to work with others.  One thing I have saw a lot of on this site, is partnering.  Maybe I can find someone else who has the knowledge but not the cash (?).

Thanks in advance to any who reply and enjoy your summer!