If you are looking to rehab and flip properties getting to work with a general contractor is priceless, and also getting some time with a mentor that could show you the ropes is another route to go while working full time.Good luck!

You can simply join as a regular  member.

What one investor will say can't be done, another will do on a regular basis.And just like other factors, property taxes vary in LA from one municipality to the next.CSM (RET) Robert Leonard

Most don't, even if they allow regular rentals.

A good management company, if working with a good board, will keep everyone informed on a regular basis, regardless of whether you live in the community or not and regardless of whether it's law or not.  

Because of her being turned down we are considering going the conventional route or possibly commercial for a 5+ unit.

Experienced on the rental side, and not too interested in going that route right now, but rather would like to find a team on the flipping side of things.  

I arrived to this idea:  Apply for a home loan through a bank for the purchase of the house, and take out a business loan for the renovations.Would this be the best route to take for a newbie with no personal connections?

In which case, get a private lender to finance you and after a year re-finance from bank.If you understand what I am trying to tell, and like to pursue this route, keep in mind there are lot of moving parts in this strategy.  

@Rodney Buchanan   The best route to go would probably be @Nathan Richmond route with an FHA mortgage.