If you already have a high interest rate, consider a cash-out refinance with a fixed rate rather than a HELOC.A third option could be to sell.

What I noticed so far is extremely high property taxes. 

There are a lot of markets with solid job markets, strong populations, solid rent growth, but when you are talking ONE property, unless you are considering highly rural areas, it likely doesn't matter.  

Since the contributions have to come from the business income (PM biz) it’s not likely you’ll come close to taking advantage of the high contribution limits of a Solo 401k.

My income doesn’t show itself as being very high, but I have a relatively large amount of cash to put down.

I would say high-quality bedding, cozy outdoor spaces with firepits or seating, and thoughtful touches like local coffee bar setups.

Some of the national data sites have pricing suggestions that run both high and low.

If you have large debt with a high interest rate, I would consider paying that off before getting started investing in real estate. 

It's definitely possible to get a loan as a foreigner but the rates will be high(er) and the downpayment required will be as well.

Even though the nightly rate is high, the RE has such high value that the margins are fairly tight.