Hi Julianne,
I am looking to invest in off market and wholesale deals in Savannah, GA to fix and flip and am starting to learn the market. I've deal with many different wholesalers in different markets. The best wholesalers know their market VERY well and that should alleviate some fear if you know where to look for value. Good wholesalers are able to get a deal under contract from a motivated seller who needs to cash out quickly or is just very frustrated with their property. Then make sure to leave room in the deal to achieve value for your end investor! I see all the time wholesalers setting the price just under a listing price on the MLS that the comps never came close to supporting. There is value in making a relationship with an investor that does volume, with quick close and simple all cash transactions. They might not pay the highest price on a "one-off" deal, but over time when you find more deals you'll make a lot more on volume and the relationship and spend less time on headaches. Give accurate detail to your buy list, up front: provide pictures, price accordingly (rehab and ARV) and once you develop a reputation for seeing value and pricing it right, then assigning contracts will go quick and you will be able to build.