There is a good firm I think in San Deigo that specializes in helping first timers. can't recall the name but google the subject I bet they come up

Thank you Lynn, so my best bet for doing deals in NC would to find an attorney who will work with me on opening escrow for wholesale deals correct?

I have no idea, but I would bet you can get away with bandit signs out there in Methuen and Lawrence, MA.  

I honestly wish I knew more about Kensington myself, I know parts of it are a great bet for appreciation...I'm just not up enough on that area to advise you.

I would be willing to bet they are going to build on the SW corner of 16th and expand to Illinois St. 

@Dawn Anastasi  Dawn I disagree I bet you will get contacted by folks from this post who will offer you exactly that..

In my market, and I would bet most others, it's not common place. 

Bank likely will not be interested due to the high vacancy rate.Your uncle sounds like your best bet.

There is the function of the "time value of money" there is also the  "money value of time", I bet Brandon hits on that!

I bet the primary factor (.8+ correlation) in getting a "good" deal or better would be price paid.Much of the literature in the RE world seems to be the same advice rehashed over and over again.