You have a little money saved up for investing. Yet there are several ways to invest. You may try your hand in stocks and bonds, but this option allows for no control on your part. Another method is to invest in CD's and mutual funds. The problem with this way is the low return you receive once you cash in. But there's another way...

Real estate is still the safe route for investors who are willing to sacrifice a little hard work and still enjoy a hefty return. To flip a property simply means to buy a piece of real estate that is cheap and selling it at a higher price. This form of investing can be profitable, but you must know the details surrounding this option. Here are five ways one can flip a piece of property for profit:

1. Purchase a fixer-upper, renovate and resell -This is the most common form of flipping. It involves buying a piece of property that needs a little work, spending a little time and money to fix it up, then resell it for the improved appraisal price. This is the tried-and-true method most investors do and it still works very well today. This sort of flipping, depending on your locale, can profit you between $15-50k in just one deal. The key here is finding a good bargain. The danger with this sort of investment lies in either paying too much for the property or underestimating the repair cost. It is best to get the property checked by a professional who knows what to look for to repair damages. When doing this sort of flipping, make sure you include the length of time it takes to resell it and the cost of paying a real estate agent to sell the property.

2. Purchase, refinance and lease/option property -Instead of selling the improved property for a lump sum, you can sell it for terms. After the completion of renovations, refinance the property at the new appraised value, and then sell it to a consumer with a lease with option to buy. The new homeowner's rent should be set to cover the mortgage payment. When the tenant options to purchase the property, this is when you profit. This sort of flipping involves no broker fees. Make sure you do some research on the tenant first. Don't be afraid to ask for references and check them out. This can save you money should the tenant decide to walk away from the house.

3. Purchase the property and sell it "as is" -This form of flipping is best for individuals who don't like to do fix-up work. The key here is purchasing the property as cheap as possible in order to sell it below market value. If the local real estate market is booming, then it shouldn't be a problem selling the property in poor condition, just below market value. Most times another investor will pick up the property to fix it up and sell it at the new appraised value.

4. Scout for another investor -This is technically not a property flipper. It's more of being a "look-out" for potential deals and selling the information to an investor. A scout finds a property, gathers all the necessary information, and then sells the information for a fee. Many people get their start in real estate investing doing this technique. It's a way where no cash or knowledge is necessary. The fee gained can vary depending on the price the property is going for and what profit can be attained. Expect to make anywhere between $200 to $1000 dollars with each successful purchase the investor makes.

5. Purchase a property, wait, and sell when prices rise -This sort of flipping will take a little time and money. This involves purchasing the property, holding the land in your possession until the market value rise, and then sells the property for a profit. Very similar to the stock market, you'll have to be patient until the value rise to a level where you'll make a profit. Seasoned veterans usually do this form of investing. They're the ones who can read how property values can fluctuate.

Property flipping can be a very lucrative investment to someone who has the right kind of information. There're many more ways to profit from real estate. It will take some time to fully understand the complexities of real estate. In your town or city, there may be classes geared to teach the art of investing in real estate. Lots of places even have free workshops and seminars to attend. By knowing what options you can take, you can have success when investing. Good luck!