Start with the county, zoning, planning commissions etc.

Any advice on how to get the process started would be appreciated. 

@Chris Morris have ALWAYS seen bad "deals" from rookie wholesalers that really don't understand what they are doing to provide value to the industry.It's getting worse because the real estate market has recovered from the 2010 Crash, yet many are still using tactics & methods developed during this time.Everyone in the industry needs to go back and look at what was being done BEFORE 2010 and start using those methods, updating them with current technology.

OpportunitiesAffordability: Compared to many West Coast markets, Albuquerque properties often come at a more affordable price point, making it possible for investors to get started without a massive initial capital.Rental Demand: Due to the presence of UNM and other educational institutions, there's a consistent demand for rental properties, especially those close to campuses.Cultural Appeal: With its rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, Albuquerque offers cultural festivals, markets, and historical sites.

3) Any advice for someone starting out, especially when trying to scale a mission-driven organization like this?

My hope is they will be removed from the property prior to 2/15 but, I'm worried if paperwork was done incorrectly (I don't believe it was) and I need to start the process over again, I can just fall back on the 30 day notice.

I never got the consultation, but was politely told my portfolio is probably too small to pay their annual fees (starts at $2500 and goes up).

This is not a great return, but not terrible.As others noted, there are other risks, like having the property insured at full replacement or purchase price, or if the option is 100% seller financing with no money down or very little, versus 20% traditional down payment, this can start to move it into a better investment.

We started it about 3 years ago. 

I am just starting out as a wholesaler I know of 3 properties that are vacant, before I contact the homeowners I would like to have the agreement so when I talk the homeowners in to letting me  sell the contract to an investor I want to have that ready.