That includes staging and design IMO.

We are aware of the risk, but also actively trying to take steps to reduce it as much as possible.

Just would like to make sure to reduce the number of vacancies. 

If you are brand new with no real estate background, most hard money lenders will be comfortable lending at a reduced LTV.

I have done a lot of investing, to include a little bit in SFR.

Brandon Turner has a free guide on how to rent your house, and it includes a section on application. https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/how-to-rent-your-houseThe best thing you can do for yourself is try to think through your major steps ahead, and plan for each.

Specifically:- Are there any exceptions or tax treaties that could eliminate or reduce my US tax burden on foreign rental income that is otherwise taxed locally?

I've been charging by project and not including the amount of time I'd have to go back and forth with the municipalities.

There are a lot of nuances to learn before you just dive in, as this is a highly competitive market.Since you are new, I would advise running numbers that include using a property manager.

I can recommend an experienced VA lender if you need one.The great thing about VA loans is that you can put 0% down and you can get some large seller concessions which really reduce your cash due at closing to practically nothing.