You only have to live in one unit for one year according to VA guidelines, but there are ways around it like setting up a PO box down the road from your property. 

Alternatively, I would just 1031 X down the road, in which case this really wouldn't be a problem.

{When I was 12 years old, I was riding with my Grandfather in his car, and along side of the road was a large bill board that said "Highest and Best Use".I asked him what that meant, and he explained it to me. 

So here it is, if you were 22 and starting to listen to BP (because of your uncle:), what would you do in RE to make money now, build your network and begin to learn the industry that you know will give you freedom down the road?

I put too many miles on without that road trip to KC.

If so, you could always refinance down the road with a a traditional lender if you find better financing terms than the seller is offering.

I want to make sure that by me adding income to the property it would increase the value of the property for refinancing or selling 3 years down the road.

I am looking to both Live in and eventually flip several years down the road.  

Would have zoning tell me in writing the steps and affirmation that can happen. 3 to 4 houses per acre with road and setbacks is ok for 1600 sq footers or less in our area.  

It's a smaller city that is just up the road and growing.