For major rehab, do you prefer to buy materials for contractor or just pay the GC the price they quote?

Not my preference, by there are plenty of people that are ok with it..

Personally, I would prefer 90 days because markets are always changing.

Preferably in Passaic, Nutley, Clifton, Bergen County, or Essex?

I am getting the feeling that the best option for me to start my new journey as an investor is to take advantage of a First Time Home Buyer Loan(i think) and if I live in that starter home I would prefer Orlando.

In addition, bank deposits have increased, providing additional funds to lend.Bank lending is usually limited geographically to the footprint of the bank’s retail network as many banks prefer to lend only to those borrowers to whom they can provide additional banking services.

With wholesaling you're only putting the property under contract and assigning it to someone else, or possibly double closing where you own it for a few hours and resell.Investing in real estate is actually owning the property, whether it be flipping it over a few months, or long term buy and hold and usually renting it out (my preferred strategy).  

@Dennis P.You did not specify whether you are interested in Buy and Holds or Fix and Flips, If your preference is Fix and Flips, I propose the following action plan.

I heard Brandon Turner talk about preferring 15-20% CoC and getting >=$100/month on cash flow.  

Preferable under $130k.