This is our first attempt at picking up a commercial property so we want to make sure we give ourselves the best opportunity to take control of the property. 

Since reading that book I have attempted to dive into the knowledge on Bigger Pockets and read as many blog posts and listen to as many podcasts as I can. 

All in attempt to state his goal was to "work for me now" to make sure I wasn't homeless that weekend and keep this deal together.

Yes, C property at best, but I still expect some attempt at professionalism. 

And last attempt I said "Hey let's seller finance this. 5 year note, higher interest rate?"

I believe Al Williamson attempted to cover this in the panel at the summit.

We also attempted wholesaling "in-house" only to find this to be impractical with our demanding, full-time jobs.Our primary interest is SFR rentals in the Jersey Shore/Central Jersey area with flips to pay these down faster.

That should cloud the title and ensure that you are notified if the seller attempts to refinance the property or sell it to someone else.

2) For a complete view, should I attempt to recreate the last 10 years in my books or start from this point forward?

What do I specifically seek to know wether or not I should even attempt to get this into contract?