These were all safety related work issues that were approved by the PM company and under the repair allowance in the agreement (I signed this account...). 

Once you define your top 5 priorites, you can refine your list from there.

there is nothing wrong with it, most microwaves have that option and do not have to be vented out, even though as a contractor i prefer them to vent out. if the existing pipe already vents out, which it probably does if there is a pipe in the cabinet already. what you would have to do is unscrew the 2 or 3 screws in the top cabinet that screw down into the microwave ( if not there then there may be 2 bolts in the front of the unit behind the cover that have to be loosened) that will loosen the microwave, then its a matter of taking the screws out that hold the fan at the top back, pull the blower fan out and change the direction so that it faces up, screw the fan back to the unit and put the microwave back up and bolting it. check to make sure the fan connects to the duct work, if not, add a piece of sheet metal to connect and seal that joint. btw you may want to unplug the microwave before doing so, just for safety reasons.

That being said, assuming our next purchase is going to max out our DTI, should we prioritize purchasing the owner-occupied property first, and then look to unconventional funding/portfolio loan for the investment property?

The work they do goes beyond the aesthetic and includes health and safety as well.

Also, for tenant safety, does the basement have two entrances? 

Safety is number one.

. - I agree with many comments above, and I understand that you need to prioritize.

Industrial facilities are bound by more stringent building codes restrictions for fire safety.

Not sure about Alabama, but in Texas the only reimbursable expenses are for safety, security, and preservation of the property.