In my experience, these are the guys that want draws all the time (and it is easy to get ahead on them based on percentage).I tend to avoid the guys that can "start right now".  

Strategies that are more inclined to generate wealth tend to be overlooked. 

I suspect these things tend to snowball on top of things, wherein funds start cracking and you have to keep running faster and faster to keep a roof over your head and everyone paid.

Can I just birddog the situation, step out the way, bring the buy and asking for a referral?

Partnering with a wholesaler sounds fine, but check the real estate licensing laws in your state before bringing a buyer for a commission.You might consider getting your real estate agent's license and legitimately earn what your skills, drive, and experience truly command. exactly wholesaling or bird dogging is not a life time or long time occupation  RE sales can be lifetime and if your any good at it at about year 10 you should be getting all your sales from referrals and such.

When running numbers, especially on small multis more western markets with direct access to NYC tend to be more favorable from the numbers stand point and many of these towns offer 30 minutes or less taking commuting lines.

Happy to share my referral here in Columbus OH.

The typical bars of soap are too big for 2-3 night stays, but 1 oz and smaller tends to only last a day.

Expect higher turnover as people renting rooms tend to move.

A good contractor is critical—get referrals and check references.