I want to make sure that I am learning the proper techniques to finding good deals, because the thing that scares me the most is paying to much for a property. 

The technique you allude to is not unheard of, not sure how common it is.

I wouldn't employ this technique more than once - do some research into the going rate for comparable rentals and then post the property again with the appropriate market-rate.As for denying the dog, make sure it isn't a service animal.

If you look at something and it looks like it is going to be hard AND you'll have to learn several new techniques, you should probably call in a pro.  

One technique you can use instead of offering more money, is offering a shorter contract period.  

Seems like 9 out of 10 calls I get are from wholesalers or people trying "No Money Down" techniques. 

Account Closed's house hacking technique, lol.

After I clean my current list, I want to utilize more sophisticated list-building techniques for the campaign beginning in August or September. 

This isn't a "get listing quick" technique.  

You can look into mitigation techniques to lower the annual cost.