While this is simple anecdotal evidence to support my general statements, you can use https://www.incomebyzipcode.com to easily compare any given zip code on the east and west side to compare median income levels.

However, if you need traditional financing through a lender you will find that this property will not qualify for traditional financing since it has a second "livable" dwelling on the property.

In my limited experience with portfolio loans, lenders typically use mostly the same criteria that a bank would use for traditional financing, but will allow a borrower to go over 10 loans if their finances justify it.

Also, how much longer has it taken to rent out such a layout compared to layouts where the bath were on the second floor with the bedrooms?

Traditionally, isn't there more ROI in purchasing existing multifamilies rather than constructing new ones?

We don't want to do 7 traditional mortgages; but would rather bundle these up as a portfolio.

As I am clicking on the different parcel numbers, I stumble upon a property with a relatively high tax lien compared to other residential properties.

Yet our prices compared to Colorado.I am sure this makes most southern states more appealing for investing then home.

That's less than a 0.03% chance of audit compared to the average 1-3% chance of audit. 

You have added value.Before moving out (when still owner occupied) I would refinance it using traditional loan (not the VA loan).