I was unaware of how the visas work with foreign students.

This thinking is a bit foreign to me because it seems to assume that the property will always appreciate.

Lori,As a former college foreign exchange student I like the advice from some of the others to contact the international department at the local universities and try to work a deal with them on a short term lease for their international students.

(2) Landlord will NOT pay to repair the following items unless caused by Landlord’s negligence: (a) conditions caused by Tenant, an Occupant, or any guest or invitee of Tenant; (b) damage to doors, windows, and screens; (c) damage from windows or doors left open; (d) damage from wastewater stoppages caused by foreign or improper objects in lines that exclusively serve the Property;I assume the toilet was working fine when the tenants moved in and at the stoppage is just located in the toilet, then this is something that was caused by the tenant or a guest and at the tenants responsibility.The only time we would charge an owner for clog is if the sewer line is collapsed and is usually evident by roots or mud in the line.If the sewer line is fine and any clogs are deemed the tenants responsibility.

But all hope is not lost as there are stragglers who have complications due to study abroad, foreign students, didn't graduate, etc. 

As a small investor managing from afar maybe foreign at first, but get easier as you gain experience.  

While payments up front certainly exist (I have a friend who lives in New York who pays one year up front simply because she just came from a foreign country with no credit), unless you know someone you trust who plays this game as well, I will see if there are alternative tenants as well. 

While I know working with cash is tempting, It is the currency of our country and it must be accepted.

Airbnb guest is a foreign visitor, and wants to pay directly to save on all their airbnb fees.

"picking up rent"  is a foreign concept to me. either snail mail, or electronic!