Hello everyone! I've started digging into wholesaling and found more questions than answers. I'm very new to not only investing, but the forum as well so forgive me if I mess up general terminology or commit any forum faux pas. 

Questions:

1. How do I establish a contract? Is it like a normal deal where there is a money deposit to hold the contract for the 21+ days that its not on the market? What form/agency do I use to make this legal? Is there a middle man in said legal process (title company)?
2. How liable am I if the deal falls through?
3. I know I need to find the type of buyer I want first, but should I contact them before I'm on contract or after?
4. How does wholesaling through auction work? What are the typical mediums to find properties to whole sale?

I realize this is a lot. If anyone has any references I could use that answers these questions I would greatly appreciate it!

Thanks in advance!