Go to the source for the facts, either the state website itself or a reputable source, such as the state association of realtors. 

@Adam Lawrie I have what you're looking for, I'm not the source so I'm not going to sell anything to you.  

The combined network will remove duplication of listings currently served by both systems, and will now provide information from more than 600 data sources, and distribute approximately three million listings nationwide, or close to 85% of residential listings in the country.Move, Inc.

Flips are as good as anywhere, but it's also popular here, and a LOT of people do it already, and I've heard a few sources say that it's become very competitive here. 

Your best bet is going to be through a wholesaler or source your deals directly with your own marketing.

Certainly discuss with various sources as each lender will have their pros and cons. 

Find a bank willing to do this, locate a private or hard money source and purchase the house, then refi into a regular mortgage.I have been purchasing rentals this way for the last 7 years. 

I'm not new to investing but I am relatively new to wholesaling/sourcing my own deals. 

Some will be individual specific like my having two employment income sources.

You asked about the legality, there are federal regulations that employers, sources of income, landlords, mortgage holders and debt holders provide applicants or their lenders with the information to applicants/lenders for insured mortgages.