Think of them like the private form of a zoning code, which is often how they are used.So two things 1) covenants are private and the risk of violating them is having a civil suit brought against you by another private individual 2) they are recorded documents so knowing what they contain is as simple as obtaining a copy of the document from the County Recorder's office or asking Title to provide you a copy.

Most agents don’t want to spend time showing properties in need of a heavy rehab, they prefer a good looking listing where it’s easier to obtain financing for the end buyer.

Sewer being most important.Be sure to establish whether or not Park is on septic vs public utility.  

It seems obtain a POA would be the way to have this closed

Download the SF Handbook 4000.1 starting at the bottom of page 144.A Borrower may be eligible to obtain another FHA-insured Mortgage without being required to sell an existing Property covered by an FHA-insured Mortgage if the Borrower is:• relocating or has relocated for an employment-related reason; and• establishing or has established a new Principal Residence in an area more than 100 miles from the Borrower’s current Principal Residence.

Congratulations on obtaining your license.

Especially if they are publicly traded.  

So low, in fact, that I'm considering obtaining financing for buying the property and financing for doing the rehab.My plan is to live in one unit and rent the others, but I'm wondering if taking a rehab loan in addition to the mortgage makes sense.

Have you talked to a public adjuster? 

The zoning of property is a public record, if you tell me what city I'll give you a link to lookup the address.