Borrowed money from friends and family to pay cash for the property as the bank would not finance it until it had been remodeled, made livable, and brought up to code.

Because I'm not an accountant or versed in tax code and law wouldn't I want a CPA to ensure everything is legally tight and as advantageous as it can be? 

There are codes that allow for more density or at min ADUs on SFH lots now.

Partner with a Real Estate Tax SpecialistThe tax code is complex, and mistakes can be costly.

As you begin your REI journey here is one tip I have for you:Use this website as you are trying to narrow down the places you want to invest in. https://www.areavibes.com/Its awesome because it gives you a "total livability score" & you can compare different zip codes & streets to others. 

I also own over 15 properties in these two zip codes. 

From tax stand point I would think you can separate from primary and be okay with IRS being that IRS will not be local code enforcement.  

Here is a recommendation I have for you as you begin to figure out what area you want to invest in.This website is a great reference point for figuring out what each area is like. https://www.areavibes.com/It gives you a total LIVABILITY score for each street and zip code & discusses crime rate, schoolsUse this rating and classification system I have created over time to get an idea of the "Class" for the area - A class B class & so onHere is my rating & classification for each livability score.80 and above A+78/79 A76/77 A-74/75 B+72/73 B70/71 B-68/69 C+66/67 C64/65 C-60/63 D59 and below FBest of luck and let me know if I can help answer any questions! 

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

On Zillow, we simply call it #A with the same address.Learn something new all the time.I don't know the layout, but code calls for two exits in case of fire.