My PM has gotten a few estimates for the repairs and forward them to the tenant.

Are there any major repairs that are coming up in the next few years (eg new roof)?

Then yvan let them know and hopefully they were start repairs with a good handyman or contractor 

Mine emails me monthly statements if no work done but also snail mails me the ones that have had any maintenance or repair along with copies of paid contractor receipts for my files. 

You can also access this apartment from the main entrance that has stairs going down to the apt; so it has a front and back entrance.https://www.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/basement-and-cellar.pageMy father is getting older and he just doesn't want to deal with the house anymore, and will be passing it down to me.

You have 12 months from death of reverse borrower or you need to write to servicer of the loan for an extension which gets you 24 months. 

Also, the agreement specifies that if I buy a property through his service I'll be paying 3% commission in case the sellers broker doesn't split fees.

Wholesalers tend to overinflate the ARV and under estimate repairs needed as many do very little due diligence, putting all the risk on you. 

I think the best and easiest way to get started is to use a servicing company.

We have found different non-profits to work with who guarantee rents, deposits, extra money for repairs, and money to turn over the unit between tenants.