One benefit to accepting a cash offer is that the seller wants to close quickly.

Yes pretty much what Chris said, just make sure that you have a lease that you can provide to your lender and depending on the lender and regulations at that time make sure to not accept cash for rent.

We have had some success with having the loan officers call the listing agents when we submit offers and try to help ease their concerns with advising the sellers to accept a VA loan offer.

here's my thoughts...The market is very hot right now, so finding a deal in a major metropolitan area is going to be harder unless your willing to accept a distressed property and rehab it (which is really where investing bread and butter is anyway). 

You can accept applications, do background/credit checks, and collect payments all online.

I received word that I was accepted for a job in Houston, Texas, but before I go I wanted to meet with some of my fellow investors one more time.  

Those are the only two options you should consider, unless you can convince yourself to accept the low rent. 

If they accept great, if they do not, follow up consistently.If you have the 1 year savings, than I think it could be a good deal.

Even though this isn’t allowed with ESA in Ohio can I accept a pet fee and deposit if she is willing to keep the peace ?

I am not opposed to FHA loans, it's just I know some sellers tend not to want to accept FHA contracts as readily as conventional in this current market.