The big reason I ended up dropping my price so much lower than my bottom line of $165,000 was the cash offer and the inspection did show legitimate concerns.

I figured it was not a legitimate listing. 

I'm tired of the "hype" and just want to find a legitimate and safe career option.Anyone have a recommendation for what my next step should be?

Depends on how you state funds, if it's cash at close and you have no financing contingency or "property must meet or beat appraisal", I'm not seeing where it's crucial.If I'm representing a seller and I see cash at close, I'd counter with a request for proof of funds.In the standard RMLS (in Portland forms), they make you call out the E/M, down and financed amount.As far as source of funds for a loan, as long as it's a legitimate loan, unless you're asked for a stipulation, not seeing why disclosing hard money is an item.

It is legitimate....and while yes the failure rate is 90%, I bet its higher for wholesalers.  

While there are a few of these programs built around people who are (1) successful in the program they’re offering (2) providing a legitimate, ethical way to earn money and (3) honest about the effort, knowledge and experience a customer will need to have a chance at success, the vast majority mislead, lie, or omit one, two or all of the above. 

It has been brought to my attention lately that many so called hard money loan brokers request an upfront fee for their services. I felt compelled to right about the loan application process so you can understand i...

I don't yet have any legitimate experience in real estate investing, but my professional training has allowed me to become comfortable interpreting, researching for, and drafting contracts and other legal instruments.

I would also want to get some kind of feel for if this was a legitimate need or just feet dragging and laziness about getting out of the apartment, and wouldn't do it if you think it might turn into anything longer than those 2 weeks.Kelly

People thinking I'm a con-man, when I work to provide a legitimate service for my customers.