Is there a way to avoid a due on sale clause for my current property and duplex but still operate them as rentals and be taxed as a business?

I'm not a lawyer, but have dealt with turds like these before in a completely different arena, and yes, they will try everything they think they can get away with, and hope you just settle to avoid problems. 

There is a difference between cost and price, “Pay the price now to avoid the cost later”.

Further to that point, since you're part of the HOA, you're banking on the property appreciating wildly... while also avoiding the special assessment whammy.

@Ben GabinWeak and unnecessary....if you got skills you dont even need the website...

The realtor was avoiding the properties I had on the list because of how bad the crime was in neighborhoods and how often HVAC condensers were stolen or broken into, and she was trying to look out for my best interest. 

Do hard money lenders avoid any deals with seller financing?

You can avoid a lot of capital gains with a 1031 exchange.

Regardless, if somebody is deceptive about their past I certainly would want to avoid investing with them. 

I wouldn’t do a rehab for a first time investment, but it doesn’t have to be totally turnkey to make money and also avoid stress.