It's INCOME PROPERTY, not a primary residence.

My husband and I are working hard to find a lender that will work with us, however he is self employed and starting flight school (which requires a large loan) and my income alone will not qualify us for a traditional loan in our market. 

I was thinking about renting out my primary residence which has taxes in 2017 for $5,900.

I've been entertaining getting into the Detroit market, but will also be buying a primary residence in Norfolk in the Ocean View area.

Yes, I anticipate that any bidding with a party who intends to be the primary resident will exceed my "investor's budget". 

Or sell current home and roll equity into new primary residence?

Investment property and your primary mortgage stays the same.

We are FI-minded and although this will be our primary residence for many years, we have an *investment* mindset and would like someone with similar values and visions to help us decide on the best property. 

Has anyone been able to build a non-traditional house (storage container, tiny home, modular,etc..) and have it pass under-writing standards?

Most traditional banks and lenders will not make a loan that small.