Sometimes the unlicensed wholesalers can come off as cheap, unreliable or just downright shady. 

I could see how Agreeing in writing to market someone else's property in writing could be considered unlicensed brokering.However if you simply get a p&s signed between you and the seller you shouldn't get in trouble for marketing.

In most states, it's illegal to pay someone unlicensed for an activity "based on a closing/receiving a commission".  

All contracts, options, or other devices not based upon a substantial consideration, or that are otherwise employed to permit an unlicensed person to sell, lease, or let real estate, the beneficial title to which has not, in good faith, passed to such party for a substantial consideration, are hereby declared void and ineffective in all cases, suits, or proceedings had or taken under this chapter; however, this section shall not apply to irrevocable gifts, to unconditional contracts to purchase, or to options based upon a substantial consideration actually paid and not subject to any agreements to return or right of return reserved.There is a case going on at this time filed in Collier County.

Most states do not allow an agent to pay an unlicensed person a referral fee.

@Linda Govan"Virtual wholesaling" as you call it is VIRTUAL UNLICENSED BROKERING.

Get more bids and opinions from both licensed and unlicensed contractors.With the roof, I have a roofer that is reasonable and a good guy who will repair rather than replace and be reasonable with you.

They tend to keep the same networks as most unlicensed investors and I've learned the investor/agent community is very close.

It is illegal for an agent to pay a referral fee to an unlicensed person in many states.

Of course- there will always be a few oddball sellers that hate agents and want to deal with unlicensed people.