First time around/ use a realtor?

[Joseph M Bongiovanni]

I live in Braintree Massachusetts and I am looking to flip for the first time in this general area. South of Boston down to North Attleboro. I have a partner who is also inexperienced. I'm thinking I should use an experienced realtor to help us find the kind of property we are looking for as well as any connections they may have with lenders, contractors etc. Do most REIs find properties on their own to save money? I'm also wondering if anyone thinks that a condo may be a good idea for a first flip considering there would be less to be concerned with in the renovation. We will be happy if we make any kind of profit with the first one just to get the ball rolling and start getting hands on experience.