I want to make sure that since house hacking is a bit unique in the grand scheme of things, I don't stumble on any unwelcome surprises on the inspection or insurance end.Thanks in advance,Valerie

Most multi's were once grand old homes unceremoniously chopped up into apartments. 100 years of weekend warrior repairs - the gift that keeps on giving from a landlord maintenance perspective.

I am looking for a general contractor that can do or manage a roof, kitchen, bath, some siding repairs, and cosmetic paint/carpet type stuff. Does anybody have a reliable GC?

I would recommend Grand concruse,  highbridge, Mott haven, Morrisania

Any reader that is familiar with the Grand Conclave, roo. 

Anthony Gayden those houses are still worth something... if the owner is paying you a couple grand to take it over lol.

It totals up to a few grand, so I'm curious if I'll ever get access to these funds?

The title company can change the commitment to the assignee's name before you close, but make sure your assignment contract makes the owner's policy the assignee's cost. they'll get the benefit of the insurance, so they should pay the couple grand even if you need to initially hire the title agent to get the ball rolling. 

I'm a new investor , 1 deal under my belt , bought a 2 bed house for 65,000, put 10 grand into it and rented it out and have 500dollars.

A bunch of singles can still bring home the same result as a grand slam....