I currently live in Greensboro and own one property I live in that Im planning to rent out once I find the next.

•I’d compare this deal to similar non-flood-zone properties—if the return is much better, it might be worth the extra risk.

Its usually the tenants who live in the lowest tier housing that are most prone to play games and take advantage. 

I am exiting the rental market here (love living here tho). 

I've lived here on and off for 15 years.

Buy where you intend to live, where you know the areas best.

For example it is my understanding that Big Bear allows it but whoever is managing the property has to live within 1 hour of the property. 

A duplex to live in and easily able to exit out of it renting it 100%

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)?

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it.We have a 12 page management contract that we've added our real experiences to over the years, with the intent of protecting both us AND the landlord.