But considering how flipping pays off way more in shorter time versus rental, I am thinking about starting off as a flipper and then do buy and hold. 

Above anything else get a full understanding of what a true asset versus a liability is and then approach the market.

Familiarize yourself with secured lending versus unsecured lending.

Depending on the type of loan (conventional versus FHA), they have very specific requirements for the condition of the property - from the age of the roof to the condition of the paint. 

Two ideas:Solicit your list to see if you have buyers who will just pay you a "finder's fee" for a good buy & hold versus getting involved in the contract assignment or double-close process. 

Of course, such "savings" typically come with increased spending over time versus making the expenditure up front.

If I take on a smaller deal at 1 million I analyze how much time it will take from me versus the 5,10,20 million dollar deals I am working on. 

I've listened to Matt Theriault's podcasts, which I believe are enormously helpful.It was his podcasts that steered me to looking into wholesale real estate, as the no money down/connecting sellers with buyers, concept is attractive.I currently own a contracting business, which as of late has lost its appeal.I know the construction business well and have lived through a pletherea of learned experiences.Not that I'm bored with construction, I'm wanting a seemingly more fluid cash flow business.What I've learned, and frankly want BP's thoughts, is that I'm looking for distressed property or owners as potential sellers.I want to connect those types of opportunities with buyers, who either don't have or want to take the time to find the properties I'm willing to do the work to find.Based on my reading of BP's UBG, understanding what buyers want should be the first step, versus finding sellers and then buyers.And, that a great resource could be county records of cash buyers and that that step would provide potential buyers.Question:Has this approach worked for you?

If you continue to learn I'm sure you will have a lot more knowledge about real estate by 18 versus most people a lot older .I'd start studying your local market to get to know it well.

Regardless of the nature of your business, it is critically important that you maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records. Managing your books will not only help to evaluate the performance of the business but...