Let's say I had cash today (I am awaiting a condo I have to sell to free up cash) and had a desire to fix/flip with a back up of holding it/renting it, how do I know how to assess and pull off a sale?

In areas like SoCal it seems we are almost going back to those prices...especially in the 'prime' desirable areas.

You simply cannot put a blanket answer to your question.What are your goals and desired return?

The area is very good, the school district very desirable, and I would likely be able to eventually rent the unit out for $300 - $400 more per month than my monthly costs on it would be (mortgage + taxes + insurance + HOA); however, I intend to live there for 5 -10 years.

Personally I've taken a few RE courses in the past, but never had a desire or saw a true need to get my license.I'd like to hear both sides of the argument.

You could become a business broker and sell restaurants for sellers as you already have the network to pull from and contacts.Just thinking of ways to get you the family time you desire and away from the long days.

If you mean "partner" by bringing money to the table with the desire to earn a return, a newbie might be willing to give you a higher share of the profits than an experienced investor.

The houses are located in very desirable neighborhoods with low inventory, they have been rehabbed with high-end finishes on the rehab work, and both have been perfectly staged.

However, being positioned in a much less financially desirable position than I was 9 years ago( because of kidney and other endeavors), I am wondering if a real estate licence would be the best way to get better "peeks" at opportunities.

I can set you up to receive listings based on your needs/desires directly from my MLS.