IF you plan on going back someday, and this is the home you want to move back to, then renting it would be a good idea as long as you estimate that it will cover itself, or preferably, cash flow, which it appears that yours will at @ $2K or so per month (after expenses). 

I'd prefer a small business.

I also prefer to screen the guests and set my own price/stay restrictions.

As far as benefit to the seller goes, @Matthew Paul I think you are probably right on the money and regardless of whether they would have preferred to stay in this house rather than move, it is likely providing them some excellent cash flow; and I'd be hard-pressed to come up with a deal that serves both parties better than the current situation. 

Keep at it because the way you talk and your analysis preference + being good with people is the key to what you want to do.

Small upgrades or re-leasing to market rents could boost your cash flow and provide additional funds for your San Diego purchase.If you'd like, I can connect you with a lender or help you explore potential properties in your preferred areas to see what’s realistic within your budget.

We recently signed up with Steadily, which is the preferred insurance partner of FurnishedFinder.

While that may be good for the 10% pref investors, you may have been better off holding another year and getting another 7%.Related to this, I generally don't like preferred returns as a passive investor. 

Whether that's mobile home parks or any other kind of commercially valuated endeavor is a matter of personal comfort and preference.

However, what if you prefer simplicity, limited risk, and are living off of the income?