When you're licensed, you have a lot more ability to insert yourself into the process and stay informed on the true status of the deal.If you don't want to get licensed, there are a couple options for contracts:*  You can download a generic contract off the web (this is risky, as it may not be suitable for your area);*  You can find a local realtor who will give you a copy of the template used by local agents (legally, you're not supposed to use these if you're not licensed, but I won't tell);*  You can hire a local real estate contracts attorney to provide you a custom contract you can use.3) Is it best to try to get a partner, someone who is already experienced?

Also, I'd check out @Michelle Garabito's story - absolute badass and is affiliated with Astro Flipping which is a great wholesaling community. 

Having looked around I am wondering if anyone has hit upon a free or reasonably priced cloud based rental property software. TrueRent PendoRent are ok to some degree but still on learning curve.  They do cover most ne...

Also you do not want to use this persons attorney where an affiliate relationship exist.

And in general it is worse to disturb and remove then to encapsulate. there is also an interim control certificate but you should look at this certificate and the deleading on the web site.

There's a Facebook group called Tax Smart Real Estate Investors (no affiliation) you might want to check out where the nuts and bolts of the STR loophole and REPS are discussed on an almost daily basis. 

We've drafted our promissory note, have the funds ready to move, but I'm not finding any information on the web regarding the proper place to have the funds when the purchase is made. 

Private money lenders are people who you have a personal relationship like your uncle that has extra money they want to lend to youHard money lenders are people who have no affiliation with you but want to lend money to you.

Of which, I'm not affiliated but have done personal business with. 

I'm talking with a data/web guy to put together a private app to visualize population and job growth data.