I have a contact there I can refer you to if you'd like.As far as flip or long term, I'd say find a way to do both.

I have had cases where on paper someone has bad credit due to divorce or illness but has glowing references from previous landlords.

That "short" amount is referred to as the deficiency.There are two ways to deal with it.1) As part of the short deal with the bank, get it in writing that they won't issue a deficiency. 2) Make sure that the tax deal is still in place so that the seller is not responsible for taxes on any deficiency that the bank issues.

Also, I would ask the company for the references.

Hi Joe,I work with a number of property managers and would be happy to refer you to a good one if you would like.  

But we have came across our first road block.This is what is happening 12/3/15 we hired an architect that was referred to us by a real estate agent (which we do not know or have ever done business with, we got his number from a sign realtors put up on properties he sells acre lots and offers to design your custom home as well, his sign was up in the community where we bought our acre) so we called him and he told us of the architect he works with and who has done the design for the majority of the homes there, well they are beautiful homes so we called him up and met with him on 12/3/15 at his home office.

I'm happy to refer those sellers to YOU."

If you look good to the mortgage broker have them write a letter on your behalf saying that if you apply for mortgage in 12 months chances are very good that you would get a mortgage as long as you keep your job and protect your creditNo that is not a mortgage qualification letter, but it should satisfy the ownerNext, I would get references from my previous landlords that you were an ideal tenant.

I have a few rental properties right now that I'm looking to purchase in the area and I'm looking for references for people who might be able to help in the region.Many thanks! 

Are you referring a specific area?