If you did not win a bid, they should have simply returned the cashier's check you provided them or given you a refund if it had already been deposited in their escrow account, unless there was an agreement between you for them to hold it for the next offer.

This cannot be emphasized enough - if you STAY in the game you will win - the key is staying in the game...

I can only suggest you can't win unless you play.

Think markets likeCleveland, OhioCincinnati, OhioDayton, OhioToledo, OhioYoungstown, OhioCincinnati, OhioMemphis, TennesseeSaint Louis, MissouriIndianapolis, IndianaDetroit, MichiganErie, PennsylvaniaLouisville, KentuckyMilwaukee, WisconsinJackson, MississippiYou can win or loose in any of these markets.

In the meantime, here's some resources for you regarding turnkey investing, Rent to Retirement, and the markets that we invest:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/92/topics/765347-rent-to-retirement-reviewhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/92/topics/1116050-a-huge-win-with-cori-from-rent-to-retirementhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/44/topics/1058814-first-time-with-new-construction-cape-coral-fl?

(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!

Hate to see people in bad situations, but there's usually a resolution that everyone can win in.

Leverage- as mentioned over and over again REI wins.  

When all landlords operate with their tenants in mind, we all win is our attitude.Hoping over time to connect with fellow Portland OR area BP members and learn from them about how their financing deals, finding deals, and growing their portfolios!

Win a couple, lose on most all.