Me, as a wholesaler, of course, I prefer a buyer who is all cash, since lenders can make things very complicated and potential de-rail my relationship with the seller if the buyer blows out due to lender issues, however if it's more of a hard money/private lender who has lended on these types of properties before and realizes things may not be perfect, then I sometimes will allow my buyers to use a lender, however then we have to do an Amendment/Addendum to the contract that the seller has to sign that acknowledges it changing from an all cash deal to one with debt, which so far I've been able to finesse sellers into.

The first article has a link to the original ordinance and amended ordinance in 2018. 

His theory was agents fight less for repairs, fight harder to keep deals together, pay for minor repairs themselves vs writing amendments, etc. 

I would say just that to your agent and have them ask the seller to amend the agreement.

If they say they don't plan on getting another animal, amend the contract and remove the $50/mo.

As far as validating the rental revenue, there are a few things to consider: ideally the estoppels would be notarized; confirm the lease agreement information matches the rent roll, p&l, and bank statements (bank statement would show you how much they are actually collecting); request copies of the executed lease amendments or other written or side agreements the owner may have had with the tenant(s). 

ok, i am editing this - what does the amended lease say about how and when the work needs to be done and how the deduction is taken? 

I intend to register a protest with HUD to amend the practice.

I personally have never been involved in the rezoning of a building in Chicago.However, a Google search helped me find this City of Chicago website about the process of amending the zoning of a building in Chicago: City of Chicago :: Zoning AmendmentFrankly it doesn't look like there is a fast way to complete the process before purchasing the subject property.It looks like you will need the approval of the City Council of Chicago and therefore it might be a good idea at some point to reach out to the Alderman for support.More specifically, it will be a good idea to hire an attorney to represent you who has experience dealing with the Chicago zoning board and local politicians.Therefore, a price reduction could/should be requested.Good luck

They can certainly file an amended tax return.