The first prototype is just about complete, all I need to do is set up an inbox/drive for them to send receipts to.I'm posting here because I wanted to ask what features I can include to make this tool even better for them and make it a more special gift.

You'd even be able to talk to someone who specializes in STR to see if the property would be a good fit. 

So I use Zillow Rental Manager right now and they say even with ACH bank transfer, it will take 5 business days.

Even with a dozen Properties spread over 25 years I have yet to have a property become uninhabitable.

is it even possible?

You must develop a trustworthy team and then visit the properties even if they are a distance away.

Can you have tax write offs even when the business is not generating income yet?

Or maybe it doesn't even matter where they are located. 

I would tell you consider other states like FL, IN, OH, TN, AL, GA, even one state up from you on the Oregon Coast.You can find a solid 2-4 unit in all of those states under $250K.

Do you have any suggestions for hard money, private, or even conventional lenders who might be willing to finance a property purchase outside of the country?