If you're a newbie, I believe it is an absolute basic requirement.Not only will it help clear up some outstanding issues and provide a detailed step-by-step procedure, but also the speakers, Shirley Henderson in particular, offer some valuable tips I have yet to see in any book, YouTube video, etc., or anyone here on bigger pockets.For instance, they will go over the process of double closing, how is totally unnecessary and why only newbie wholesalers would consider it.

Thanks for the input…so basically if we find a property on the MLS and run the numbers and it seems like an okay deal, we're probably not actually getting the best deal? 

I am more risk adverse so I would not count on long term appreciation with a negative cash flow property especially in DC/NOVA...there is always a ceiling on how high the appreciation can go when you are already starting out with average home costs for a basic house that needs heavy cosmetic rehab funding on top of the over $350K - $450K house in an Ok area of DC/NOVA.I submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request at the County Code Enforcement office and got a list of blighted (Vacant) and other code violation properties.  

Then find a realtor.The realtor I used for my purchase basically just linked me in on his MLS.

If so, you can search the county records to see what liens are filed of record against the property and to get a basic chain of title.

I basically just trade up.

(2) If the money is in fact being taxed twice, is this loss offset by the fact that this is basically an interest-free loan (you're paying yourself back the interest instead of another third party)?

Become a Real Estate Agent assistant to learn the basics.

What do they need to sign, what do I need to sign, what needs to be notarized, how do I get the deed, what needs to be recorded at the county, all of those basics.

I did not own tools in any serious fashion (a screwdriver and hammer do not count), and could not make any basic repairs.