Can you deny someone's application based on this despite it being a medical marijuana card & not technically breaking the rules of smoking indoors?

This gives you flexibility and a clearer understanding of how you’ll proceed based on market changes.

I base my rents on the condition of the unit and the competition. 

If you choose to play with fire, that is your perogative.For your reference, here is a good primer.Here is the key paragraph:Rental discrimination is when a landlord or property manager treats an applicant differently based on the applicant’s inclusion in a protected class.

Not all but a vast majority based on my doing deals in PA NJ WV OH SC etc etc. 

We are based in NYC but are considering (as of now) locations outside of NY but within a 300 mile radius. 

We have made money buying properety based on cash flow (lower priced) rented out for a period, then selling to an owner occupant. 

.- You will have to come out of pocket for the arears, fees etc, just to get into "contract" some times $20k or more and all you have as protection is the word of someone who's proven to be unreliable and a signed piece of paper... 

Have invested in ABQ with first purchase in 2020 - and that was based on my knowledge as a film/TV friendly area and affordability.

Based on your first fix/flip, it sounds as if you don't have any issues doing moderate rehab.