I have seen a few properties that have been sold to buyers from wholesalers and I am trying to figure out who the wholesaler is so I can connect with them to buy properties.

I think the South Eastern part of the United States is trying to catch up to the Western half as far as housing goes.  

As far as being able to include the cost of the rehab and the amount that goes into your "upfront costs" for #1, I've seen people on here say they put the funds for the rehab in escrow and do draws, but I've seen other people say that the number that goes on the closing/HUD statement needs to be the amount already paid for the work (basically a receipt), suggesting you either do the work before closing (generally not possible) or pre-pay the contractor (terrible idea!)

As far as what the units are renting for, I would ask the seller for his records.

As Chris mentioned, the University City area of Charlotte is great as far as affordable housing goes.

part of what we are trying to figure out is what is typical as far as including utilities or not in our leases. right now, everything is leased with owner paid utilities. if we can avoid this we would like to. or, maybe we just bill back the tenants at a rate that is subject to their occupied square footage?

He's one in a million as far as PM's IMO.I say all this because it sounds very doable in your situation with $36k to put down.

It sounds like the the things you want fixed are exactly why the house is so far below value.

That tactic is so flooded from other investors and agents it makes it tough for us small guys. 

The under $300k space is so saturated with buyers, investors, and I-buyers, so you decided to go where there is less crowd!