However, what I would suggest based on your expertise as a contractor is going into a semi-fixer upper and make minor repairs to boost equity as well as savings. 

Please suggest if you think any other budget friendly ideas.

Any suggestions for local experts in jersey city? 

He has suggested an 8-unit building.10,000 sq/ft @ $215 sq/ft = around $2.15MEach unit will be worth around $268,750The current plot of land is currently zoned for a duplex without further approval from the city/community, but the zoning on the land can allow for up to 8 units by applying for a Special Use Permit through the city.

Newer appliances, free nice laundry, 2nd floor, yard space, storage, clean bathroom, included heat, installed window A/C.Appraisal suggested the unit was worth 2,300 a month, which I felt was a bit high, so I listed it for $2,150 with no move in fee and a 2k deposit.

However, their terms involve a 20-year amortization, a 5-year ARM, and a rate of prime + 0.5% thereafter.I’m exploring other options for financing and would appreciate any suggestions or advice.

You may come across pushback with having co-gendered units so as you grow I would suggest leaving room to have unit(s) that are male and female only for those who are more comfortable with living with others from the same gender. 

I am afraid we will fall for a property with a false sense of a good deal.Are there any suggestions to help me run an analysis that would better account for the larger down payment and allow me to better analyze potential properties in the future.

DTI is generally only used for "Retail" or "Consumer" mortgages where you live in the property.So a conventional/DSCR "commercial" loan doesn't necessarily mean higher interest than a "consumer" mortgage if it's coming from a traditional bank/credit union? 

HI @Jacob KazmierskiI would suggest saving a certian % you fee comfortable with and then put the rest into a high yield savings account.