You want to rule out needing a variance unless this is a large property and the change would significantly increase the value of the property and/or rental income.

My thesis was that this would lead to increased investment in the surrounding neighborhood and home values would increase.

Those that respond “$0” or something ridiculous, you can request income documentation from them to justify.Don’t be afraid to share with them how much your property taxes & Insurance increased and that YOU cannot afford to absorb them.ALWAYS get an increase or something of value annually when rents are increasing or tenants will start thinking they should never have an increase, making future increases that much more difficult to negotiate.

I will be increasing my savings amount to reflect as well.

There have been increasing issues with unincorporated JeffCo...

Increase supply (or at least encourage development), and the prices will eventually come down (as we've seen in other large cities like Austin where the demand boom was followed by a supply boom - and now both sale prices and rents have gone down). 

I'm working to pay off my rentals which will dramatically increase my cashflow in a faster time.

Here’s the quick-and-dirty lowdown to get you started:1️⃣ Where to Look:LoopNet & Crexi: Good for commercial deals, though the best ones go fast.MLS (Multiple Listing Service): Access through a realtor for hidden gems.Auction Sites: Think Auction.com or HUD homes for distressed properties.Direct Mail Campaigns: Target landlords with older properties (especially those with code violations).2️⃣ Systems for Finding Deals (Step-by-Step):Set Your Criteria: Market, budget, unit count, rehab level.Build a Deal Funnel: Use LoopNet, Crexi, wholesalers, auctions, and brokers.Analyze Quickly: Use a property calculator to see if it cash flows.Direct Outreach: Contact sellers or property managers directly.Get Your Network Tight: Property managers, realtors, contractors—they’ll drop the best leads.3️⃣ What Makes a Good Deal:Cash Flow Positive from Day 1.Below Market Value (usually needs rehab).Upside Potential: Think rent increases, better management, or refinancing options.4️⃣ How to Become the Better/Best:Study the Market Like a Hawk.

It will also establish legetimacy.... wholesaling is a sketchy business hence anything you can do to increase your credibility will only help your chances at success. 

Increasing density can often get strong reactions from residents if they disagree with it.