Our thought is that by buying rental properties, and improving our portfolio we will have a lot better borrowing power.

I don't want to be rude, but I have to learn to cut them off politely.I thought may be having it on the MLS might improve the odds of finding a more "decent" long term tenant?

You see the FCRA is a federal law passed and amended to improve the quality and accuracy of background checks while protecting the privacy and civil rights of all parties. 

It would definitely be nice to have someone I can trust help with the process of a flip, or just general improvements. 

I'm in no rush (I have my plate full in the short-term improving what I have), but in the next year or so I'll need to break through the door barrier if I want to meet my long-term goals.

This method works for me because my rents cover the cost of paying the loan and operating expenses, plus setting aside 10% of the rents for capital improvements and 5% for repairs.  

There are also great tac advantages to owner occupying the house you flip for 2 years so it gives you time to do all the needed projects and enjoy the house as it improves..

Yes, I've become skeptical with tenants ever trying to improve their condition.

If there's a competitive offer situation, I would probably take a grand or two off the purchase price(1% maybe) for someone that's pre-approved with no inspection contingency versus someone with an 8 day period.

I might add that it is also in an area that i was not familiar with so I probably over estimated the ARV and over improved even if the market hadn't shifted.