My banker is noncommittal until he sees the survey and elevation information, but I think I want to pursue this even though it is low lying and may start shopping the Fannie/Freddie lenders even though this may be small fry for them.

I looked at upgrading to turbo.. but I really don't care for oxygen at high elevations. 

I had an insurance quote of $538/yr for the whole building, but most of their build sites are in unspecified flood zones so you'll need an elevation certificate for accurate flood premium which could be another $800-1400/yr. 

Get yourself a low key, non-pushy elevator pitch.

Even though the condo has been in existence only for 20 years (previously it was a a school) I see that in these meeting minutes a recurrence of issues with the elevators.

It has a big core (elevators, stairs, chases) which makes it difficult to redevelop. 

If it weren't for this, I would have made an offer. waiting to hear from the agent about elevation levels and, ultimately, what the resident was paying for flood insurance (FEMA maps show it in the flood zone).

You must procure a flood elevation certificate, approx $600, from a reg land surveyor or engineer before I can quote.

I think it is wonderful, with your advanced education, in combination with living and working in NYC in an elevated capacity in the NYC real estate market, gives you some of that "NYC chops", that should go a long way to help you branching-out, on your own.A thought for you: Do you have the possibility of renegotiating your work agreement to changing to an equity position (a "piece of the action", an "equity position" instead of a salary.)???

Have your 30 second "elevator speech" very well rehearsed, because if you interrupt my bourbon sippin' time by knocking on my door on a weekend, I better interested in the first 10 of those seconds .. or else that door is getting shut in a hurry.Sit down and write out every single question you think a homeowner might ask you, and have an answer.