Having an equity split of flipping profits as a co-owner on the deal could create taxable income to an IRA known as UBTI.You or your entity will be the property owner.The IRA will lend to you or your entity, with a note secured by the property.  

We’d be looking for a co-signer on the mortgage and pay a monthly commission for this.

Is your mortgage co. forgiving your monthly payment?   

There are many, many variables in flipping and it's best to be there if only to be sure the workers show up.

What is the best way to find and network with real wholesalers in Northern Colorado? 

Blue collar workers?

If you get to very large deals, there are also private equity groups that will co-invest for a large portion of the equity, but getting to that scale will take some time.

I would try to push on the seller, especially if the agreement came with a requirement for a clear CO.

I can check for more references but am a little nervous to move forward if he is unable to produce license and show worker's comp for his employees. 

I am both co-sponsor and investor in several multifamily syndications.