No particular routine.... 

We routinely rehab houses built in the 70's and 80's and with the Houston soil [high clay content] foundation repair is common.  

What you cant ask about, is discriminatory questions.Here is MA, the fair housing law is strictly forced.

I have a strict policy that I forward the quotes I get for repairs and charge a set agreed upon percentage of bills I coordinate once you approve.

Private money from strictly retirees?

Most all banks will only loan 75-80% LTV on the PURCHASE PRICE at closing regardless of what the appraisal is.It is very risky to do work on a home prior to closing from strictly a "what could go wrong?"

Of course, there are strict rules so it is important to work with a seasoned professional.

Your insurance will cover routine maintenance items?

Similar situation with regard to background and credit check efficiency; some states like Oregon and Washington have pretty strict regulations when it comes to what may or may not be released as part of someone's criminal records.

I guess it comes down to your goal with financing, if strictly wanting to pull as much cash out as possible then yeah I would try to contact a commercial broker, otherwise, a residential loan might be a better long term option.