My client's living room is completely unbalanced and odd looking because this wasn't done, which I had to hide with some fancy drapery "magic" that was expensive.

I live in Elkhart, IN. 

With the prevalence of remote work policies, many people opted to leave affordable apartments living near work in and around metros to live an hour or two outside of their work location to get much more space for their money.

We do live an hour away from these properties and have W2 jobs.

I know becoming a part time agent is one way, but where we live in south Florida seems to be overfilled with agents and I don't think its a great fit for us right now. 

What adds complexity to our plan, is that we live in Minnesota.

Living closer to work saves time and money.

@Benjamin Goodman gives a good example referencing live in flips. 

What zoning code could I request a zoning variance or rezoning that would allow us to have the 2 livable units on parcel, one primary residence and one additional living unit (known currently as ADU)?

Buyers don't look for financing and its foreign so they don't jump on a forsale listing on zillow.I've had the best (only) luck with zillow rental adds,   starting with the pitch;  rent to own, live in a great home while you pay off owning it.