The living room and dining room are connected by a partial wall with a large opening.

Some walls are stucco so need patching where has came off, flooring put down in addition (still plywood on floor), etc.Thanks for reading my long story!

Finally, I am considering adding wi-fi and front desk and somehow section off or partition spaces, either with drywall or pre fab removable walls for offices.   

We have had the interior of those areas completely gutted (floors, walls, ceilings) and are waiting to start repairs.

There needs to be a full understanding of how the brick works within the "wall system".

ANY conventional loan with less than 80% LTV WILL incur PMI.Sadly, we use to be able to shed this when our equity was > 20%, but today, most if not all loans with PMI will retain it until the loan is refinanced or sold.

Even the affordable ones will likely ask you for a decent retainer (anywhere from $2500 to $5000).I'm not sure how the mediation program works in your county.

There is no way to cut a window as the next building wall is touching the siding of my property.

They also likely have 2x2's for the interior wall as many of the "temporary" housing in Oak Ridge did originally.

@Jason HirkoYeah whatever works or do a lighter rehab and don't open up the ceilings/subfloors/walls if not totally necessary.