The experience of generating consistent cash flow from that rental property opened my eyes to the potential of leveraging real estate as a long-term wealth-building tool.

MTR arbitrage is a useful tool to have in your tool chest, and like all tools, it has its uses along with its positives and negatives.MTR: Medium-term rental (usually between 1-12 months)Arbitrage: renting from another landlord and *with their permission* renting out that unit to a third party, hopefully at a profit.

BP has various tools to help you analyze your deals (rentals, flips, wholesale, etc). : https://www.biggerpockets.com/investment-calculators7.

I think special tools are needed in this instance. 

You're spot on about security deposits being a practical tool to mitigate risk, especially with applicants who have checkered rental histories.

I’d appreciate any feedback on whether tools like this would be valuable or if other concerns take priority.

I think I am on a path to recovery, ready to check out the market tools to finally pick and market and find some deals!

We use Key Data Dashboard, a superior analytics tool used by property managers, DMO's and similar organizations.

BP has various tools to help you analyze your deals (rentals, flips, wholesale, etc). : https://www.biggerpockets.com/investment-calculators7.

If you really don't value your agent's ability and think you can do it better, it's likely best that you 1) interview more to find one that you do trust, 2) go through the listing agent, directly, if you're that comfortable with handling your side on your own, or 3) maybe get your license so you can control your side of negotiations with the proper tools needed (MLS access with agent info, showings, contracts, tax records, uploaded listing docs like surveys, disclosures, broker assistance for questions, etc.).