Wholesale proposition, thoughts?

[Gino Tomba]

Hi BP,

I made a connection with a landlord that would like to find something to rehab and rent. I originally was looking to buy one of his current properties, but nothing I could do a deal on. The conversation continued and he knows I am actively evaluating his target market, so he asked me to let him know if I find something to his liking (he gave me a few loose requirements) that we can do a wholesale deal on. 

I am not looking to make this a business, I understand there are legalities I need to learn, but how does a guy on the couch wholesale a property?

If I find a home, no matter how hard I try all he has to do is google the address and go buy it himself. Seems like a good guy that may have a moral compass and still do the deal with me as a finders fee, but is there ways to give myself the advantage? Not trying to make this a career, just trying to go after opportunity.

Thanks Ladies & Gents