The wholesaler maybe has it on a daisy chain so is trying to get his fee outside because he isn't on the original assignment contract?

If you contract is free to come with you, that would be the best approach. 

Find the ones that can do it, and it also helps if you have separate contracts for the lease and the option. 

Market in a MinuteEast Tennessee home sales decreased 7.8% from the previous month, and decreased 1.0% from a year ago.The median sale price was $371,250 — up 9.19% from the previous year.Total housing inventory increased from the previous year – up 38.3% from a year ago.Half of the homes sold were under contract in 20 days or less, up from 11 days a year ago.40.55% of homes sold for the asking price or above, with 18.77% selling for more than the asking price. 8.04% sold for at least $10,000 over asking and 2.88% sold for at least $25,000 over asking price.The sale-to-list price ratio decreased from last month to 97.5% – down from 97.9% a year ago.New construction represented 12.36% of total home salesData Deep Dive: How's the market?

We pay a yearly fee for our owners, if they are not in contract with us then they pay the 5% commission on all reservations.

This is proper planning and so smart to get educated way in advance of the first guy so you are totally on the right track.

I am currently under contract with a 9-unit multifamily.

Get it under contract, ask for all the leasing leads, why hasn't this seller signed anyone?

I'm a full-time active real estate investor (former engineer) in Edmonton with 32 doors, and another 24 under contract.

Your approach is smart!