Crossing fingers.

2 things cross my mind when you mention buying all cash...1) You become more attractive to lawsuits when lawyers discover you have so much equity2) You lose any write-offs associated with that payment....do the math on that one...Just my $0.02

He was a Marine stationed in CA and when he got out he subleased and they did not pay. 

However, using STR in an attempt to qualify for crossing real estate investment expenses and depreciation over to your W2 income triggers audits.

One thing I learned on this property is the power of using Equity from other deals to cross collateralize and buy additional properties.

Get an attorney or financial advisor to cross-check it for you if needed.

This really only exists in vacation markets but worth asking to make sure your t's are crossed and i's are dotted.- What happens if the property appraises as rural?

It just crossed my mind the other day this is an option.

- Does anyone have experience working with a cross-border CPA/tax specialist who understands these issues and can advise me on how to manage US tax compliance for my Kenya Airbnb properties?

Depending on your budget, I would not give up on homes in Marin, San Mateo or Santa Clara counties before looking out to the East Bay.