Grass is always greener...Grand Rapids is a fine market. 

So really depends on what matters more, positioning for that big "Grand-slam" that requires patience, or going for the solid base-hit's here n now.       

Cape Coral, FL.Blue Ridge, GA.Alma/Fairplay, CO.Phoenix (*Do a hybrid play where you Vacation rent in winter, then short term lease to corporate renters or traveling nurses Summertime) Honorable Mentions:Hilton Head, SCMyrtle Beach, SCMassanutten, VAKillington or Southern, VT by ski areasGranby/Grand Lake, COLake Travis or Lake Granbury TXLake Havasu City or Pinetop, AZCocoa Beach, FLTraverse City, MIBlack Hills, SDIsland Park, ID

For example, I have a client under contract for an efficiency unit at Grande Cayman (a Brittain property). 

I'm located between Grand Junction, Co. and Montrose, Co. and am interested in wholesaling in those areas. 

That's called grand theft auto.

Taking money up front and not providing materials or services outlined in scope of work is textbook grand theft, or am I missing something?

In the grand scheme of your business the costs of a good LLC agreement could save you immense headache and money if a disagreement between partners comes down the pipeline.

Of course, that will cost you a couple grand in mortgage fees, but its a small price to pay for peace of mind and reduced risk.

Another person might do paint and carpet for $3k and maybe a few grand on appliances or other things.