Check your local regulations if you plan to rent out the house. 

I'm just south of the twin cities, but I'd think Fairbault or Owatanna might be a good place to meet since there centally located between Rochester, Mankato and Albert Lea.

Did you look into renting to Section 8 tenants?  

The applications, screening, lease signing, and rent collection is all done there.

The claims of 1hr to collect rent, produce receipts, and deposit checks also seems like a reasonable claim if done physically and not electronically.

It seems like location would be especially critical with pad-split (and similar systems), but I’d love to hear your thoughts on what to watch out for in terms of zoning, safety, or demand.Also, I’ve traditionally rented out units the regular way, so I’m curious how screening tenants works for you with the pad-split (and similar) model.

I would say MA laws vs RI for renting each have their own challenges. 

Rent your current place(if it makes sense). 

Firstly, it often generates higher rental income compared to long-term leases, particularly in desirable locations or during peak seasons.

I do not understand your remark as related to the DSCR loan.  2 ADUs are not allowed by f/f conventional financing but is not always enforced.Fortunately if you stay with the current tenant without a refi, by the time you pay principle it is likely the rent will have increased enough to absorb the increase mortgage payment.