I would like to know which are the best zipcodes to invest in and how is the rental market ion the area.

In my free time, I like to work out, run, watch sports, and hangout with my family.

This seems like a marketing ploy that might appeal to a small group of travelers. 

The big difference today is we dont have to carry paper.. we buy for cash and sell for cash.. its a very narrow niche of course.. and the marketing is just like any of the wholesalers big spend on out bound .. and guys/gals that can close a deal on the phone..

  $81k seems like a very expensive fee....but I have not been able to get the financing and if he can get it done I question if it is necessary / normal?

I suggest calling up a lead inspection company or two, they will likely be able to answer your questions with more certainty.

It seems like towns could dictate if you can build an attached vs detached adu for instance. 

We would like to sell them and use a 1031 exchange to purchase a larger tract of land that we expect to close on before the end of the year.   

@Pete WolvenI found this, looks like theres a meeting in October.

Moreover, the MLS is likely the best resource for such information.