Do you prioritize multi-family properties, single-family homes with basement units, or another configuration?

Prioritize the properties as you will still pay some of the mortgages. 

If you're prioritizing the headache factor, having one tenant is always going to be easier than manage than two, but I think what's more important is that you're vetting your tenants thoroughly no matter what type of property you get.Good luck!

A property is considered Uninhabitable if "A condition that materially interferes with the tenant's life, health, or safety." 

People are moving to North Port because of its lower-than-average crime rate, Peaceful neighborhoods and It is safer than the majority of the country and is in the 78th percentile for safety, making it a terrific choice for families.

Or wait until we have 2 incomes to build more of a solid financial safety net. 

Put safety first by looking closely at homes, guessing fix-up costs, working with good workers, and having backup plans for surprises.

You can always try check with the city's planning or building & safety departments to see if they have any type of file related to the parcel, and if they do, if there is any due diligence in the file, i.e. soils, etc. 

Most lenders/investors are wanting a margin of safety in investment loans given where the economy and RE cycle are at.

(additional info: changing the stairs or getting new ones would be a massive undertaking)You might be able to get them to sign some sort of waiver, but then if anyone gets seriously hurt it likely won't save you.Some attorney will argue you willfully ignored a known safety issue, and as the "big bad landlord" you'll lose your shirt and then some.Plus, your post here will be Exhibit A and definitely won't win you any points with a judge!