I have a lot of learning to do, but my main interest is multi-family dwellings, commercial spaces in the future, possible vacation rentals and/or trailer parks. 

They’re telling him his garage is too large as an independent dwelling.

they considered it a dwelling unit and can qualify for opting out of VRLTA VA 225-55.01 if they expressively write it in the lease.

Would anyone have any advice or resources on getting started in a new city if my goal is to owner occupy a multi-unit dwelling (budget: ~175k)?

That is an instant return on investment equal to your tax rate, and allows for a greater amount of capital to invest. 

The attitude of "instantly accept anyone who brings you a letter" is not   

MSOOTKAUG HAS the answer... to life.Website (SEO + Credibility)Get a website going RIGHT now for several reasons...1) doing so you have stopped just not doing anything and you ARE doing something that WILL get you to your goals2) Websites take time to be functional when it comes to SEO, so start now3) Websites can be INSTANTLY effective when it comes to credibility so this means it can instantly make you money.. so again..

You will need a vacant dwelling or builders risk policy.If you have any more questions or want help looking over offers from HMLs post them here and we can go through them.You will want to ask the HML some questions too.

All dwellings with 3 units and up require a green card.

Jerry,Depending on what the project is there are several options:- Renovation Builders Risk policy for the building & separate Liability- Vacant Dwelling policy endorsed to include the renovation- Homeowners or Dwelling Fire policy that will allow the renovationWhich option is best depends on the work to be done, duration, whether or not the building will be occupied, etc.