I now have my finances in order to start the process of actively looking and bidding on houses. I have two good friends who are legitimate successful Real Estate agents. I have an acquaintance of a partner that is a practiced agent currently active in flipping. This third option clearly speaks my language and offers a possibility of a rebated fee I may be able to negotiate. I have had limited experience with Realtors for the purchase and selling of 3 personal residences. If I understand it correctly the Realtors will want to put me under contract to be exclusive with whoever I choose.

In my utopian world I want to simply say whoever brings me the deal I go with first I will go with that person as my agent. Being a devotee to the BP podcasts has me thinking I want to keep good relationships with all the people I interact with in this world of reputations. Suggestions please..

Until you get some experience, I'd go with the partner acquaintance. If your friends get upset, simply explain that you want the flipper's guidance, and you'll be happy to work with them once you can better communicate what you're looking for. If they're professional adults, they'll understand.

I would use the best agent for a particular task. Whoever has better deal flow should be your purchasing agent. Likewise on the sell side. Ideally, your flipping partner will likely not have time to be a selling agent and it's probably good to have a little separation. If you get good as a flipper, you'll have enough for all 3 to be successful. Good luck.

Clint