When face to face explain your needs to protect you as a wholesaler, etc you need time line extensions via after 30 days or after inspections  and  exit strategy in case you don't find a seller and the deal falls thur.

Do the land  survey at purchase for your protection and because it can be financed into the loan closing costs.5.

 without a mortgage the lender has nothing to protect them from you encumbering the property

If our strategy pans out, if we have 2-5 years of strong financials (high cash-flow properties), I don't think we'll have any issues getting a portfolio loan from any bank that offers them.

Now with Real Estate what are some great ways to protect my assets from lawsuits or even anything else?

Yes, speak with a Consumer Protection attorney.

Also, don't put yourself in a financial situation where you feel as if you have to rent your unit ASAP. 4)- Plan, plan and plan some more.

You need to contact a real estate attorney who performs litigation and not just a contract and "book" Attorney.They will have private investigators who will track down and investigate the property management and interview the tenants.You may have a bit more problems than you know about,yet.This won't be cheap but you have got to protect your property and investments from fraud and abuse.

i am a self-employed contractor looking for a way to i invest in rel estate to obtain financial freedom to be able to spend more time with my three year olds son 

@James Fulmer that is an awesome idea that I suggest to almost everyone getting started with investing.Welcome to BP, there is lots of info here that will educate you on selecting a duplex that meets your personal and financial needs.What part of NC will you be relocating to?