So what can I bring to the table as a "small time" investor to incentivize top wholesalers and contractors (who strike a good balance between quality and cost) to give me the time of day - especially early on when I don't have existing relationships with either of them and have proven that I deliver on my word.1) Wholesalers - at this point I don't have a clue what I could offer them - really curious for BP's feedback here2) Contractors - pay on time and quickly (what is the quickest way to get them payment though?)

You could negotiate the terms of the contract, and ask him to strike the exclusivity agreement, or limit its scope.

What is the option price (strike-price) you wish to get for the house? 

What PSF are you asking and what is your strike point on an effective rate over the terms? 

That said I’ve been in the business for a decade, purchased a hundred of properties for my own portfolio and not once has a wholesaler managed to get close to my strike price for properties.

I am ready to make some moves and want to do my due diligence before striking the iron.. 

I am new to the BP community so apologies if this is not the best place to post my question.I am a newer investor/developer mainly doing deals with other family members but i have been striking out on my own and doing my own rehab in the Bronx.  

First of all, two strikes against me (1.

With option to purchase contracts, check and see if your state law of California will allow you to set the strike price to a new appraisal.Usually to have a legal option to purchase, you need to state the sales price now at the signing.A lease and a ROFR (right of first refusal) can be used instead of an option.See my BP Blog http://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/3/blog_posts/38...

While cash is the best, using hard-money can allow you to be more aggressive in your offer:  shorter close time and you can strike the financing contingency (we have those in our TX contracts; be comfortable with the house as well as your lender if you do this) even though you are financing.So far our experience buying with HM has been positive.