On the other hand if they are a sponsor that is experienced in stopping a skin in the game, that's a huge red flag for me.c) how open to scrutiny are they?

Insurance red flags.  

 @Stuart Udis:OK, yes new investors- not deep pockets.

Unless.... your happy to be VERY cash-deep into it and ready to absorb the hit's of a LOT of time delays and additional expenses or cost over-runs.

Testimonials are a huge red flag to me as they are difficult to verify and could be paid actors etc.

Requiring a wire is another red flag. #1 seems relatively normal

We didn't expect the fact that insurance should cover short term rentals but raises a red flag for lending during the 30-60 day period after closing where they make sure you're not using the home as a rental.

If you decide to entertain this, due diligence will involve digging deep into the business financials to understand cashflow, solvency, and liquidity, his personal finances, and searching for any liens or UCCs in place. 

A wholesaler contacted me about this house they have under contract for $205,000 that they want to close on within a week for $220,000. The house is in my hometown, I'm very familiar with the area. The house is easily...

That being said, here’s which zip codes are better than others:1.28607 (Boone) 2.28605 (Blowing Rock) 3.28679 (Sugar Grove) 4.28618 (Deep Gap) 5.28692 (Vilas) 6.28698 (Zionville)Also, a map of neighborhoods within Boone City ranked:Waldport is ranked above the national average, however it is slightly below average compared to the rest of Lincoln County zip codes.