The lawyer then calls your realtor to give them permission to give you the keys.

I am actually surprised your realtor let you take pictures, I didn't think that is permissible.  

I didn't have to ask a boss for permission I just did it and it reminded me why I do what I do.Anyway just thought I'd share.

If anyone has a shortened bullet points of what's allowed/permissible with a reference guide of requirements, I'd appreciate any guidance.

The issue with screwing them in is you want control of what is being screwed in where in your windows so I would be inclined to say with permission and provide guidelines or  have them pay your guy to install them.

With my FHA I did quite a few repairs prior to closing with the sellers written permission.

Of course you can call her and text her.You can not enter the rental unit without either the tenants expressed permission to do so or having served a legal notice to enter.

Other than getting permission from the others in my association, is this something that is even legal?

Most agreements require the PM to get Landlord approval for any repair/improvement costing more than a certain dollar amount, usually around $300 - $500 per maintenance request.I would demand the PM stop all maintenance without some agreement between the two of you as to what they can/can't do without your permission.

As you can see, they didn't even ask permission to pay rent late and didn't even give me any notice rent would be late.