However, a condo might be a easier bite to chew on this first deal as you get your feet wet. 

Does anyone know if there's anything to this theory on time of year/wetness of soil and foundation repair?

And never put laminate in wet areas, or areas that tenants will try wet mopping--it just doesn't work out well (read pucker up at the seams). 

Law suits here regarding mold can be devastating, so if it gets wet it goes, the whole enchilada.

If you mix up the TSP as strong as you indicate and you're dealing with only two or so latex coats over oil paint, the latex paint will soften while it's wet with TSP solution into, well, latex, and start to peel like a rubberized coating off the wall from the underlying oil paint.This happened to me last year.

Just to be able to get my feet wet would be awesome!

For me if it was my personal residence I'd take a 3 gallon sprayer wet the ceiling down and scrape it just like I do with any other popcorn ceiling.

If I was down your way I would definitely give you a hand to get your feet wet and work with you.

He would live in one of the units and manage the day to day activities, I would assume a consultant role while he gets his feet wet.  

I would appreciate any feedback, as this is my first deal in RE outside of buying my own home and I'm eager to get my feet wet.