Newbie or not Newbie... from Watertown, MA

[Elizabeth Read]

I'm not really a newbie...but I'm hardly a seasoned vet either. I've owned and run a travel agency for my 'profession' the last 20 plus years. During that time I bought 2 two-families, held them for a while and then converted them to condos in 2003/2004 and sold them individually. Took my 'winnings' and invested in the Charleston, SC area. Charleston was a few years behind NE in the real estate boom so I was able to ride the wave twice.
I've since closed my travel agency and have ruminated on what to do with myself. Real Estate seems to be what I enjoy and follow anyhow- so I'm back. I've set up an LLC and opened a bank account... and now I'm waffling around a bit trying to decide WHERE?
Do I invest in the Boston area- where I know the neighborhoods and can be more hands on... or do I invest in Florida (the St. Pete or Orlando areas) where it seems I can buy a lot more house for my limited start up funds?) I have brothers and friends there who would look in on my projects if need be.

I would like to buy, rehab and flip for now until I build enough capital to buy rentals and hold on...The goal is to buy 1 or 2 houses per month, rehab and sell. I'll pay 'cash' using private lenders or hard money along with my own.

It all starts and ends with the real estate agent. I do remember that from earlier days.. a good agent leads you to so many other good people... inspectors, contractors, lawyers, money, etc.

Right now I'm making phone calls and emailing agents, fishing for a good match. If anyone would like to make an introduction I'd be obliged for the recommendation.

Okay- more to say- but I'll begin with "Thank you" for this amazing site-- sure wish this had been here when I first started.... i might never have stopped!

Betsy