Buying first property from wholesaler

[Alvaro Leis]

Hello everybody, I just stated here in BP and I'm thinking of buying a property to flip, but here in Atlanta there are not a lot of homes available for sale in the MLS so when I search on Craigslist and other places most properties I found are wholesalers and not agents neither owners. My question is how do I negotiate with them? Can I do it on my own or do I need an agent? How do I know that the properties are good and clear of any liens, late Hoa fees, taxes and so? And also, who does all the paperwork? To transfer the deed and the rest of the documents?