There seemed to be confusion in that they wanted to buy multiple properties in multiple counties as a "package" for the project, but were having trouble fitting that in with their regulatory scheme, rather than one large investment, such as an office building.  

 $1000 is nothing in the big scheme of things, and an eviction would cost you much more.It is recommended you don't take security deposits in Chicago, due to the ultra tenant / lawyer friendly laws.  

I ve a question..since I'm interested in out of state investment, I ve been browsing the Bp marketplace, what can I do to protect myself from scam or scheme I hear about online?

I am doing research, and not looking for a "get rich quick" scheme. 

A partner would change my whole ownership scheme to at least be TIC with a JV agreement.For a long-term buy and hold arrangement with a partner I'm not married to, I would have a good op agreement that spells out the Ds and what happens in each case.  

There are wolves in those woods, if you go in there you better be armed with a good BS Meter and conventional knowledge, not schemes, those are wolves in a red hood with a cape. 

Now, with the scheme NC sellers and/or realtors created, sellers are protected, even if they lie or misrepresent and they are most certainly protected (and paid) when unknown defects are discovered by a buyer inspection that warrants a buyer leaving the deal.

I know that in the grand scheme of things it doesn't seem like that would determine what neighborhood to target, but I believe it does. 

Bottom line is that wholesaling is not a get rich quick scheme.

Agree on some scheme up front and in writing.