He also had one employee he used for the last several houses.

I'm starting to build my rental protfolio with a purchase in Westville NJ. does anyone have any advice on landlord insurance; calculating accurate figures as you assess potential properties, best providers, level of coverage etc. 

Great question, this can actually be at the state level (for example, in MI reasonable notice is at least 24 hours), unless a different number is specifically stated in your lease.

The mother who attended the viewing is going to co-sign for them.

Is there a better option people would suggest given the situation at a high level?

1) I don't foresee prices falling anytime soon leveling out maybe but probably not falling1a) if you plan on living there long term and can afford the payment it probably isn't a huge concern2) Limiting areas limits your options but it is impossible to predict how much an area will appreciate

Most likely, I'll be moving to the Colorado Springs area  I'm looking to do some homework on purchasing a mutlifamily complex, such as du/tri/quad-plexes. 

Prices on the entry level homes have doubled and rents haven't followed fast enough. 

The only reference I have is for my duplex and triplex properties in CO; sewage, water, garbage and share common area fees paid by me (about $200/mth; tenant pays gas and electric.

For you New Yorkers (not NYC), where can I look up when a property’s C/O expires?