Just starting out needing some advice

[Chris C]

I have been interested in investing in real estate for the last few years, but havent and im wanting to get in more then ever but i am going at this alone right now and would like any help from how to come up with some of the deals people can find? is it better to first start out flipping houses then switch to renting? i would like to eventually own rental properties for the added cash flow just want to make sure i dont end up getting in over my head.. i seen some people on here talking about attending some meetings and was wondering what those were and how i could find some near me? thanks in advance