This list was pulled directly from Raleigh’s website here:Raleigh Permits for ADUs and Guidelines Click Here to ViewTo find your specific lot’s zoning, use IMAPS: https://maps.raleighnc.gov/imaps/2.

If I find a deal on an area I would consider living when I move back I would like to be able to pull the trigger and possibly refinance into an owner-occupier loan once I move back to the US.  

It’s tough to pull off something similar with $50k-$100k in a short period—it’s just not realistic.

I would add to this account every month, allowing me to pull from it whenever there was a large repair or capex event. 

That's not exactly an up and coming area -- I'd research who built them - can likely find that by going to the SG County Recorded Docs site or by seeing who pulled the permits during const -- Wichita has been on a duplex building boom -- look at the tax value -- They probably have that or less in it on the build - I also doubt they were built to be quality long term -- things such as the trim/cabinets etc -- they all look like the cheapest stuff a guy could buy - if the cabinets aren't oak and there is MDF or pine trim and pre-hung doors with engineered wood jams I'd run.  2-3 yrs ago for $180k -205 or so you could buy duplexes in Maize, Kechi, Valley center all day to builders that were selling them off to investors - not worth that in that area.

If you are willing to do some value-add, pulling off a BRRRR is still very possible, but be patient for the right deal. 

My advice would be, if you truly want to learn the business, lease it up, refinance, pull some money out, and go on to the next one.

Something to consider to is that if you are able to refinance after the addition and pull out some or all of your new investment and the cashflow still makes sense then by all means I think go for it.

The Lender changes the loan to installment once they pull credit report for your seller, and omits it under 5102.4 guideline as paid by third party owner of prior home.

Pull permits always .