This is where having little to no experience makes it difficult because you probably won't have a track record with trades like plumbers and maintenance people so I'd work on building out those relationships as quickly as possible.

Our long-term plan involves eventually vacating our current residence to rent out both units.

Then print that prelim site plan and take it to the Planning department at your city.

What should I plan for to get started?

i plan on having money in the deal.

Not an interrogation but so much to unpack here....No judgement either, I have borrowed from qualified plans and have done early withdrawals too. 

You need to have a plan to service your debt if the rental property isnt working out.

Thanks for the helpful information.I plan on putting up a website to generate leads like you're suggesting.

How are you planning on purchasing the property?

You want a termite company to come back and certify no current activity and set up a treatment plan to pass on.