My intentions are to get with a smaller broker that has a well established property management portfolio and investors mindset.

Depending on what your intent is, if it is appreciation ( "in my opinion" ) it seems that MFR does not appreciate.

I have decided that I will acquire residential properties in the small towns and rural areas around where I live, as I live in a rural area but have easy and quick access to several different places of opportunity.My original intent was to go cash only.  

Our intentions are to buy asap, then live in and pay down the mortgage by renting out a FROG unit.  

Its all about intent.

For instance could I get a HML for this type of strategy because I have the intent to cash out refinance within 6-12 months and repay the lender?

That will help show 1. your business intent 2. allow you to possibly draw a salary and open a 401k etc. 3. help banks treat you much more seriously.

I provided a letter of intent to occupy, as well as the current lease agreement for that property valid through Oct '16.

The state has prescribed an enforcement mechanism for punishing wayward agents.Entering the real estate transaction with the intent to broker a sale to another suggests brokering activity, which requires the observation of heightened fiduciary duties in all states.

What are some of the pointers from a tax and expenses perspective to consider for a married couple that is going to buy a 2 family, with the intention to owner occupy one unit, and build a portfolio over time?