I would love to have a conversation some time and learn more.  

When they have a sale they can't handle, they refer that seller to you for a fee.

We decided to make a mini-working-vacation out of it and grabbed a STR outside of Blue Ridge. 

If they refuse to pay you that amount, or reduce the purchase price by that amount, then you can decide whether you want to move forward with the purchase or not.I suspect it's not a large amount, so there's no need to make this a big issue. 

I have owned a number of residential and commercial rental properties out of state and they have generally been good investments. 

@Connor Williams yeah, what the above posts stated but it's formally called "Forward Commitment" when a builder does it (if you want to google more on it).  

Generally speaking solid insurance and a good umbrella policy will provide ample financial protection for most liabilities.

An time sensitive opportunity came across my table for a purchase of properties in a bundle.

This also may be a good way to get an in working for someone with more experience since being a new wholesaler who doesn't even know where to start makes it very hard to start.Also, don't start telling people you are a wholesaler before you have marketing going out, a small buyer's list, and at least one property locked up because everyone wants to be a wholesaler, but it's not actionable until you are in the game.

Depending on the state, you will need a designated agent for your LLC, in that state.