On the surface students want "cheap", but when they actually look at things: clean, modern, and convenient will win over price.In our "universityville" landlords range from larger companies with hundreds of units; Dick & Jane Public who have an accessory apartment in their basement.  

If that's the case, look into whether you could apply for an accessory unit (mother-in-law apartment) as a special use in a SFR zone district.  

It is zoned duplex but building is what they call ADU (Accessory dwelling unit).

Once in a while I see a SFH with an accessory basement apartment, but I understand that I'm not supposed to rent both units if I'm no longer an occupant.

I live in Burlington, Vermont where I make and sell handmade women's clothing and accessories.

We have been looking primarily at 2 family by CO homes, should we open up to accessory apartment homes as well?

The wow factor is in the 'accessories'.

Just start googling Tiny Homes, Granny Flats, Casitas, "COTTAGES" and/or Accessory Dwelling Units aka ADU's.

Maybe bring a bit of furniture & accessories from your own house to stage it (or rent from one of those rent-to -own places, tip from @Brandon Turner on a podcast, I think).  

I'm currently checking with an agent and others on rent prices for similar properties or even the possibility of turning it into an accessory dwelling.