@Chris Schneider the actual enforcement will vary depending on the area.

Its going to depend on some more info on what you are looking for - are you buying a property that needs any renovations (flip or BRRRR) or looking turnkey?

Whether or not it would qualify would depend on her facts and circumstances.

Often time a lot with have a zoning stipulation that you can only build one residential dwelling on the lot, however it does depend on the size of the lot.

Depending how much you earn you can step up those savings by getting a side-hustle.

lots of options depending on your goals. i focus primarily in knoxville with long term holds and a few flips. my long term holds are focused in 37921 and 37912 zip codes and focus on long term tenants and student rentals. oak ridge has a great upside for long term renting as well as mid term with the lab and all the contract labor that goes in and out of there. happy to pass out some references if needed. 

Calling the city can yield various results depending on who answers the phone IMO

However, depending on the property, you may have trouble getting financing as a beginner and may need to bring someone else in on the deal with you.

You'll fund that guidelines vary from lender to lender.

It depends on the work you can/want to do which it seems like you already have figured out a good system and can handle a STR well.