However, I also have ways for them to pay with cash, card, money order, cashiers check, and personal check.

I use QuickBooks Online for all of my clients.

I would, If in this position, take the equity in the form of a HELOC and purchase a cash flowing asset that would not only pay for itself but pay for the cost of the money while putting cash into my bank account each month. 

This would be a waste of everyone's time and money.

You could certainly reach this demographic, but it could also cost you substantially more than the return.For the money, your best bet is probably a dedicated website for your property with the key words that you want to convey.

If you don't get access to the property before closing it can be tricky but if there are recent photos online or you can walk through before and take your own then it is much easier.

As for being a hard money lender.

It’s online only but purpose built for business owners and they have automation for those applying the Profit First cash management system.

If you find something that works well as a short-term rental, but doesn't work well for you as a home, you'll have money but be dissatisfied when you live there.You don't even need it to produce a profit.

Focus on identifying promising neighborhoods in the north or east bay by leveraging your husband’s contractor network, local real estate agents, and online deal-finding platforms.