Finding the deals

[Eric Mcginn]

Long time BRRRer here, planning on leaving my W2 soon to pursue flips (and raise my babies)   

Ive read the BP book on flipping. I also have a contractors license and I am good at seeing value but I’ve never sold anything. I have taken my real estate agent course work and plan to take the exam and sign on with a low cost broker to handle my own transactions. But I’m wondering if it would be worth working with a local agent for the first one? 
I’m also wondering if there are any wholesalers who focus in this area / NorCal? 

I will be looking within 35 minutes of Chico, CA. And I hope to be ready to buy within 9 months (we are moving from LA)