Is that even ethical or legal if you do not in fact have a contracted interest in the property?

I have had great success in simply being a genuine human being that knows enough about what I am doing to get the job done in a fair and ethical manner for all involved.

@David Lichtenstadter  there are no ethics in wholesaling.... most folks in most states that do this are simply selling RE without a license..

All you need is a deal source, some good and strong buyers, and ability to talk and earn a sellers trust, and a tenacious work ethic and WIFi of course.

He's always working and always reachable with high regard to ethics and his clients.

If it's ethical, well, that's a different line that was crossed, IMO.

Take out the fact that they may be "idiots" or doing a poor job(which is another story and I agree a ethical issue), but being and idiot and actually doing something illegal are two different things.  

That is your best, most up to date data point, as well as crime rates found online.As an agent I ethically have to be careful about labeling areas as good or bad.

Work ethic and sound judgement are important attributes also. 

I'm not sure what's ethically or legally right but I know this is 95% of his business and is doing pretty well working it this way.