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)?

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

Living closer to work saves time and money.

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. 

Yes, at first it is hard to find renters but because of my patience, trust, perseverance and dedication, I am now living my best life and living financially free. 

I too live in Asheville, so Sapphire was closer than Cashiers and Highlands.

Live off of equity as you sell or live off cashflow.

The loan is with you, not with your tenant, so none of that means anything to them - in fact because you live in one unit and it's under 4, if you were self-managing you don't even have to abide by fair housing laws (at least on the federal level). 

David,Yes, investing out of state can be a wise choice especially if you live in a State like CA, NY, NJ, CT where home prices are over priced and taxes are brutally high.

You can also do a live in flip where you use the equity to sell and reinvest down the road.