Serious newbie in St Petersburg, FL

[Debbie Meteraud]

I am both new to the St Petersburg area as well as investing as a career. My education and previous work experience is in interior design focusing primarily on kitchen/ bath remodeling and new construction. I currently have 2 rental properties, one with a lot of equity, not so much on the other one and some money in the bank. I am an entrepreneur, recently sold a business in Key West and I don't want to "get a job". I enjoy seeing an ugly house transformed into a sensible, comfortable, and yes, aesthetically pleasing home. 

I would like to create a portfolio of real estate that provides a source of regular monthly income and I'd like to flip houses to create quicker profits and satisfy my creative side.

Currently I am seeking as much information as I can absorb. BP has been a great source! I'm also reading J. Scott's book, The Book on Flipping Houses. I plan to attend a MeetUp next week where I hope to meet other local investors. I welcome any advice or guidance BP members have to offer!