I feel like I would hire an accountant  based specifically on their ability to guide me through this type of question.  

Then, download the BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide and start reading some more!!

He also wrote a good e-book on the topic, named The Ultimate Guide to Buying Apartment Buildings with Private Money, which I recommend.Two other sources of good insight from those who recently got started raising capital for apartment syndications are:1. 

Also, make sure to read the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingIt's good that you're willing to offer some value add in exchange for time w/ an expert.  

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/Wishing you the best!

Contracts are all guided by the terms stipulated.

You should work through the Ultimate Beginners Guide.

Id recommend reading the Ultimate Beginners Guide to Real Estate Investing by Brandon Turner, attend local REIA meetings regularly, and reach out the BP community with any questions and concerns you may have.

Read the Ultimate Beginners Guide and get involved in the landlord forum.  

Here is another thread with some discussion and opinions on both ends: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/93/topics/77001-can-a-licensed-real-estate-agent-wholesale-propertyI'm not a broker and don't know what set of regulations they abide by, but I'd also love to see someone quote the specific guide/rulebook providing us direct reference on any articles that would allow or prevent executing retail and wholesale transactions.