All the job opportunities have dried up, there aren't much in the way of prospects in the near future, and the school district stinks.  

I also understand it involves prospecting which, frankly, I'm not that great at.

That isn't discrimination against noisy children or pets, but lets prospective tenants know the expectation.  

The most important things you need to know is.......How to find your deal - power prospecting - distressed properties - ugly houses - sellers with problems - houses with problems.Next - how to negotiate - some investors say "If the seller doesn't cry - your offer is too high".You also have to be prepared with a well designed contract of sale that gives you -----Right of possession - disclosures to assign your contract -Full Disclosures - a profit disclosures - assignment disclosure - and a an important clauses to say what happens if you can't find an assignee and you have to walk away without a profit while the seller looks at you very disappointed - make sure you don't embarrass yourself using unproved flip techniques - get it right the first  time, get educated on the right way to do a flip deal. 

An offering document must be delivered to each prospective purchaser prior to sale, disclosing such information as the Director requires; and Notice and the payment of $350 fee must be filed with the Director ten (10) days prior to the first offer.

The new owner is your prospective seller.

Put yourself in the shoes of your ideal prospect.

I am looking for recommendations of a reputable building inspector that can help me verify the condition of prospective homes.

An application fee can indicate a prospective tenant's interest level.Verifying employment and rental history yourself is a good way to get a feel for the tenant, which is especially important if you're renting a room in your home versus a separate property.

I've made my dough working probates for 25+ years however I've never considered my deals to be good prospects for wholesaling.