Would the properties need to be free and clear in order for the 1031 to execute or is simply owning, say, 10 turnkeys at $100k each sufficient enough to 1031 then purchase a larger MFH.

Did you have access to sufficient funds to complete the deal? 

I hope to scale up quicker than most, not in quantity of deals, but in size.I am also very interested in learning how I can utilize my accounting knowledge to add value to JV's, partnerships, and other investors.

We are professional property managers, we have a long successful history of buy and hold investing, we have great credit and sufficient income.

While I like your property and the asking price seems reasonable, the specific terms of the contract do not allow me room to conduct sufficient due diligence on the property. 

(barring the deposits and pet rent comparison)@mike I wouldn't think written notice is necessary for not allowing pet damageYou need to read your own lease and follow it.If the lease allows pets and doesn't quantify type and quantity, you're probably out of luck. 

Does the tenant have a right to deny request to enter the property if sufficient notice is given?  

If a MBS full of junk sub-prime mortgages was given a C- rating from the ratings agencies, then they would have to be priced at a sufficient discount to attract buyers and there wouldn't be as much demand for them in the secondary market. 

My focus is on quality rather than quantity, so have a small number of units producing significant income. 

If you can show sufficient income on the first rental, I don't think youll run into any problems.