Newbie (Detroit Electrician)

[Tim Vander Ploeg]

Hello my name is Tim

As the Title says I am an electrician (apprentice 4 years) in the Detroit area (Dearborn). I have had an interest in real estate investing for a while, and have done some work with new construction and flipping houses. I was talking about my interest in real estate with a co-worker and he referred me to this site for a good starting point to begin doing some real research on how to get into the game. 

I have just begun to read the beginners guide, and know I have a lot of research to do before jumping in, but wanted to introduce my self and see if anyone could point me in a good direction to begin (even if that advice is wait, or don't do it).

So my financial state is currently is not great but I am working on building up available cash... At the moment I have about 2k cash, another 10k i can borrow against my annuity, or possibly borrow money from family ( but am trying to avoid that, if possible) 

What I am hoping to hear back would be either 

1. A good starting point for me

2. Good books, or articles to read

3. Good places to find flip house. (realtor.com doesn't seem to be full of good deals...) 

I may be able to help with electrical questions, especially if you are in the Detroit area (Code will be the same, and if need me I can look at it)

That being said thank you in advance for your help and information