I was working in a restaurant and showed $12K on my W2.

Foreigners can own property in the coastal areas provided they do it through a fideicomiso (bank trust) or Mexican corporation.There is no MLS in Mexico, except in the Puerto Vallarta area and it’s not mls.netThere are two markets in Mexico.

Another sign is hipster restaurants coming to the area.

I lived here most of my life and I know that the population is growing at a rapid pace and the houses around here are appreciating like crazy ( My house rose from about $250,000 - $330,000 since 2011 ) and new businesses and restaurants are being built every minute.

Back room at a restaurant?

Wine, coupon to a local restaurant, water bottles, popcorn, are just a couple ideas.

For example, a strip plaza provides garbage pickup but does not have a restaurant as a tenant. 

As already said, 1st make sure the municipality allows short term rentals, then try to find a secluded lot where people can walk or bike ride to festivals/restaurants/attractions/etc. and I'm sure you'll do fine.  

My friends suggest steak houses and fine dining restaurants, but I have to fill one evening with a HUGE In and Out meal.

Dollar will be on equal footing with the Mexican Peso, a scenario that may happen regardless.Best, Lee