It would cost a lot to get the planning approval and do a complete renovation of the 2 units.Can anyone suggest what would be my options at this point?

Any other options you guys may suggest if you've been in a similar situation I'd love to hear it ?  

Quote from @Austin Williams: Does anyone have any suggestions or experience leveraging a VA loan without house hacking?

Does your CPA have anyone they can suggest?

Would anyone happen to have any suggestions on how to find good wholesalers?

It's worth mentioning that I have the 1 or 2 bed options blocked from being booked on the weekends.All that said, I'm interested to see if anyone has any suggestions or ideas to help us with weekday bookings.

Any contractor recommendations or lender suggestions for short-term financing?

If you are focusing more on turnkey's then I'd suggest partnering with one of the investment companies so you can buy a property that's been completely renovated and that has a resident already in place.

I would also suggest you get a higher price point. 

If this sounds like a path you and your husband find promising I suggest making a thorough contract to ensure the security of both parties.