It's a more involved discussion that requires one on one communication and no, joining a "community" does not prepare you.

Check with local realtors for handyman recommendations. 

I was told the reserves are a requirement of the REIT loan that we have.

For lenders, I have access to private money lenders or if you want to go the traditional route, I recommend checking out Coast to Coast - Jeff Weller. 

I don't know what they are but unless there's something in the city that requires that kind of notice, it sounds excessive to me.

This will affect things like required down payment, rates, and even which lending institutions would be willing to finance. i encourage you to look up warrantability for financing just so that you don't have surprisses when your 20% down buyer cannot finance that way.

If you have, you have put yourself at great personal risk.Again, I recommend you get a lawyer as soon as possible.

Hi, does anyone recommend an investor friendly attorney in Central New York (Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, Watertown)? 

It doesn't necessarily hurt resale here although you have to know that you're going to be required to carry flood insurance which obviously can skew some numbers.

As for non-bank loans, I'm familiar with a loan program that provides 100% financing, but it requires a minimum 650 credit score and proof of funds covering 12 months of interest.