I am starting out in my real estate investing journey and was hoping to see if fellow investors recommend pursuing short sales, banked owned properties and foreclosures, versus pursuing typical MLS properties or off market properties with distressed properties or sellers.  

I also own a small renovation company that has operated in my are for nearly a decade. so my rehab cost on a property would be much more cost effective than hiring outside contractors.

If the former, then they each get their own lease, if the latter, they all sign one stating as a group they are responsible for paying rent (ie one doesn't pay, the others have to come up with the money).

And I say this as an investor myself who own a rental portfolio in Columbus OH.

I called my own mold remediation contractor who tested and remediated mold.  

Good morning BP family. We are purchasing a SFH that needs rehabbing. I'm deciding if I want to be the general contractor or hire one. What are pros/cons of this? Is there enough cost savings for it to make sense. Wha...

If you're not working with a local agent to help you screen tenants...I would say the best way to get as many eyes on the property is create marketing material - add to local FB groups and host 2 consecutive open house weekends showing a model unit and amenities.If you're close to any University Campuses - I would also suggest to partner with the university for housing opportunities for upperclass students.Good luck with filling those up!

How is the tenant base from your experience owning rentals here?

You need a great agent to sell the place for you and not allow the listing to sit for long periods of time. 

What is stopping you from scaling in your own market and expanding your own team?