However I do know owners that have evictions as a red flag and immediately move onto the next person, which also makes sense. 

By using dollars per square foot you can somewhat translate what different size properties mean to your size property.Being that this is your first deal, it throws up even more red flags for me. 

Just like a family full of half, step, full and red headed cousins.

If they can't live without the money upfront it's a red flag 

Were there no other (non dog related) red flags on their application??

Do you think it's a red flag and I shouldn't even put in an offer in the first place?

Be bold and ask people to meet up.Try to attend your local REI networking groups and meetups.

If the PMC's fees are all front-loaded, that should be a red flag. 

Back up your bold statement dude.  

Ask the RE investors you meet to recommend Tax Accountants, Attorneys, Contractors, banks, etc.Go Tigers.Post a picture of Red Beans and Rice.