Then we got a HELOC; because the interior was not complete, we used a bank that utilized desktop underwriting. 

@Kamron Lewis I know the initial cost would be kind of expensive to separate them but you could also then have them both pay their own heat too if the utilities were separated.

I would push you to think about what is possible, and how you can utilize the time that you are given to really scale to your fullest potential.

The utilities will be done on the property in two weeks then drywalled shortly after, so the current condition of the property really limits my options.

With  long term tenant I don't have the extra costs of full furnish and I don't have to supply the utilities, cable and internet.

While @Grant Thompson is certainly correct in saying that there are tons of free resources and meetups available, and that should absolutely be utilized, how long will it take you to meet the right people or absorb the knowledge needed to succeed in multifamily?

I'd also negotiate a reasonable rent increase to compensate for additional wear and tear/ utility usage from having an extra person.She sounds like a great tenant for asking permission.

The two options that he provided me with were either getting the business taxes amended to not declare a loss, or to utilize as bank statement loan that would require 20% down, which is unrealistic for both of us financially.

If I find a replacement tenant three weeks later, the first tenant is held responsible for rent, utilities, and other charges up to the day the new tenant takes over.

Once you have used your VA loan to house hack and still want to buy more rental properties, you could utilize a 10% down, no MI on a portfolio loan OOS in the mid to high 3s for a 1-4 unit property to get the ball rolling after your first house hack.