The main question is how do you handle the payment of the repair.  

My back up plan if it doesn't sell is to hang onto it and rent it out, but I don't think it should have a problem selling.What is the best way to handle this?

Therefore, money for renovations was handled before I provided a healthy budget. 

As a professional, I would inform the landlord of the issue and how I will handle it.

It's impossible to paint each situation with a broad brush because it truly is case by case given the work that was done, inspector that is handling it, etc.

If anyone knows a good lawyer that could handle this in Florida I'd appreciate the recommendation.

How did you handle it?

I had to submit a receipt for the replacement elevator key and they are only considering the actual costs (not the $125 as stated which covers my time in handling).

I fully agree with @JD MartinYou will have to make sure that they are versed in rehab projects before allowing them to handle large projects.

I've got experience with investing in rental properties while living far from the state the properties were in and I think the key to being successful with it lies in having a property management company you can trust to handle the day to day issues.