Des Moines Area House Flipping

[Brianne Williams]

Hello experts. I am a newbie to Bigger Pockets and am excited to begin a journey into Real Estate. My husband and I were approached by our business partner to consider flipping a single family home. We are in the beginning stages - doing research and analyzing our local market here in Des Moines.

For those that are familiar with Des Moines or have flipping experience here are my questions:
1. What area of Des Moines (suburbs included) would you consider to have the most potential?
2. What qualities would you look for in an potential flip home?
3. What type of homes/situations would you avoid?
4. Would you use a realtor, go to auctions, or use some other means to find out about available properties?

I have also been interested in Real Estate for the past several years and have considered making it a career as a Real Estate Agent. Would this help or hinder the process of flipping? What advise do you have for or against a career in Real Estate?

Thank you in advance for your help!