I know they don’t account for Canadian credit or income, but how can you build credit in the US and does it matter if you don’t have active income in the US?

I suggest you get active & join Rental Housing Association of Sacramento Valley or other LL association.  

We share the building with Sutter Street Steakhouse.

One partner would be doing more of the reno side and the other would be handling more of the business/management of the property as a active vacation rental.   

Most leases have a drug and/or illegal activity clause that gives you the ability to evict within days. 

Center must have adequate off street parking.

If the street is busy, plan for the fence now.

Real estate activity; unlicensed personA.(1) In addition to any other civil remedy or civil penalty provided for in this Chapter, the commission may issue a subpoena to any person or persons who the commission has probable cause to believe has engaged in real estate activity without a currently valid license.(2) Subpoenas issued by the commission shall comply with the notice requirements of R.S. 49:955.

Going forward you can separate them into meaningful activities for book purpose.  

It's funny, the pressure of not having a paycheck almost activated a different part of my brain that became more focused, more willing to move to this area of uncomfortably when prospecting for deals and business.