Separated but not divorced

[Da Gar]

we are separated and want to purchase a smaller property than our current home. VA is denying due to the fact that i will be moving to a smaller home and thus their underwriting team thinks i want to buy it as an investment property. but i intend to live on it for at least the next four years until our first VA home is paid off, which will meet the primary residency requirement. is my only option an investment loan, aside from unconventional financing. Are FHA loans an option? i reside in tx, so there is no "legal separation" status. im sure im not the only separated spouse that is buying a property.