The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it!

For example,  providing a heating source for your tenant is your responsibility as the landlord. 

While it might feel like an extra charge to tenants, these packages often provide value that indirectly benefits the property owner as well—like reduced maintenance calls or ensuring the property is better protected.In my experience managing a large portfolio of properties, these fees are becoming more common due to the thin margins in property management.

I thank you in advance for taking your time to provide us with your knowledge 

The statute says: “Habitual failure to pay rent, provided that the landlord has served . . . a notice to cease.”

When I was in your exact situation looking for help, they were the only ones that provided solid answers and walked my wife and I through the full transaction.

This is rarely an issue provided you still perform.The raising money part is more complex.

Similarly to what Mark Cruse stated above, provide dignified housing, respect your tenants, and either have a good PM or make sure you are updated on the regulations and best practices for placing tenants.  

Contractors, unless you have a working relationship with them, normally do not want you bouncing ideas off them.Understand what their hourly rate is, have a discussion with them that you are okay with paying them an hourly rate if they walk the property with you and provide you a scope of work along with an explanation of what you can/can't get away with in regards to improvements.ask them if you go with them, if they can credit you the amount that you paid.Once you develop a working relationship with a few contractors, you can bounce ideas off them and expect quality responses.I do not invest in New York.Best of luck. 

Two, (not mutually exclusive) approach’s.