It likely will require years to achieve cash neutral.  

Can you share what kind of proof you will require tenants to provide when they claim their pets are service pets/ ESG, will there be any different proofs between Service Pets and ESG? 

As a general rule of thumb if the property has a ground level commercial requirement in order to show sufficient hardship to seek a residential use change the property should be located in a location that is not conducive to commercial use i.e residential street, close but not as marketable as properties located on neighborhood's primary commercial corridor etc. 

IF you were to renovate a non-conforming unit, that unit would now need to be brought up to code.When or if you rent out the unit, you, of course, run the risk of the tenant calling the city and saying the property isn't up to code, which would, in turn, cause an inspection by the city and likely result in some violations that would require you to bring the unit up to code.These types of units are ALL OVER the city of Chicago and be rented out on a daily basis, but there is still clear risk associated with renting them out.

It wasn’t a detailed plumbing drawing- he had shown one line going to all units while the contractor pointed out that it is better to show individual lines to each unit as repairs and maintenance are easier. and some towns even require it . 

I know the 2-step authentication process is not a requirement because I've never had to do that so maybe you chose that when you set up your account?

I came up with a list of protections, and the syndicators I'm working with are eager to make adjustments to accommodate my requirements.   

What documents do they require, what credit scores do they allow, how do they verify previous rental history, etc.?

Of course, with all things, the answers to all these matters will depend on the circumstances.California tends to have more laws on the books and requirements and restrictions that it can be a good idea to form a CA LLC for out of state property so that you as a CA resident are covered, and to try to have your contracts fall under the purview of CA courts.

This is why inspection periods are required.