I would also recommend doing a pre move- in inspection with the tenant, as well as taking pictures of the property, that they will sign off on- so you are both on the same page of the initial property condition- so if there is damage when they move out, they can't say "that was there when I moved in" because you will have proof.

They were afraid the board hired one of the experts in condominium law that I recommended. 

Could someone please recommend a good property management company in the Atlanta area?

Be patient when building- nothing is ever on time Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

If you're evaluating property to invest in, I would recommend finding a quality broker to assist you in evaluating that property, and others, to make sure you have as much assistance as possible related to a large investment.

(cost of repair is about a month’s rent).Besides a none renewal of lease which only a few months away, any recommendation on what to do next or another strategy to address the situation would be greatly appreciated.

I've just used the guys that were recommended to me from other local investors and realtors. 

I appreciate the recommendations!

Going into the project I was ready to permit and want to do my best with the city and not get penalized but 3 licensed/bonded contractors have said they would not recommend permitting with such a small project.

I would not recommend doing major renos when you are a brand new investor and are investing out of state.