Probably not, but that's not what it is designed for.

If someone designs it for you they should be able to defend it for you- make sure of that.That's just my thoughts on it - Use an attorney to guide you through complicated setups so you don't make a mistake. 

Hello, I'm not the best source for design tips, but as a broker/ lender the biggest value adds that you can get on rehab projects come from improvements to the kitchen and bathrooms.

Honestly, your biggest issue is going to be getting past a potential "rural" designation for a population density that low.

Next they  informed me the soft costs associated with the a design work would not be released until CO…ok I can live with that and when I finally thought I was going to be funded I get an email that the property taxes were delinquent.

What size systems and brand/models? 

On the other hand, our house has a brand new roof, brand new hot water heater and recently renovated kitchen with newer appliances.

The GIS map designates it as a single-family dwelling, but the property is clearly set up as two units, with separate HVAC, electrical systems, etc.My main question is: Would it be possible to obtain a permit to legally convert it into a two-unit property?

Since then we've designed and built several homes in the coastal Orange County Area. 

They even have classes and designations you can attain to set yourself apart from other companies.