I think the before vs after pictures really speak primarily to your experience and ability to execute a project so it can help lenders gain comfort with future projects and allow you demonstrate what level of detail you except out of your contractors.

People mentioned master lease so are they essentially arbitraging the unit?

I feel like I need to stay local (Greater Cincinnati OH)2-4 units.  

I do not lend in NC so I cannot help but I have several options with 20% down on a 2-4 unit.

The answer to this will come down to comfort level, funds available, and strategy you are looking to implement. 

If you have 1-4 unit residential that's already cash flowing I would go DSCR if you have a ratio of 1 or more.

I have 0 experience ground up construction loan program nationwide that does NOT require GC to sign anything, only provide proof of 3 C/O's (certificate of occupancy) over the last year I.e. built received occupancy permission now unit is on market or habitable. 700+ FICO I can get you 80%LTC loan to cost on the project on ground up construction for 1-4 units.

I currently have my investment portfolio all in North Jersey and planning on purchasing a number of units in Syracuse.

In the multi unit buildings I put on lease "Each tenant shares responsibility for removing snow and salting on both walkways and sidewalk infront of property" and I have them initial before we execute lease.

What if you have an apartment complex with 20 units?