You're going to want to follow the following general rule of thumb:- 0.5 mile radius- same zip code- Sold in last 3 months- Same unit count- Same bed/bath count- Same square footage(this is not fully exhaustive but they're the big ticket items)If the appraiser selects comps that are closer matches to the above than the comps you want to use, you're going to have a tough chance arguing for the usage of your comps over theirs. 

(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!

The more you can detail up front, the less to argue about later. 

Lastly, ask for a tenant estoppel to be signed by all tenants to confirm rent, deposit, ownership of major appliances, etc…Btw, you can argue that all DD info request has not been satisfied thus you can extend your DD period.

You could argue that coworking space and airbnb arbitragers have taken on a short term version of this model.

For most people I would argue the risk of not investing in real estate is greater then the risk of investing in real estate.   

Don’t discuss or argue.  

ABC Baltimore said they would conduct their own second appraisal (per contract ABC Baltimore had the right to conduct second appraisal).

I would argue you should also be looking for a property that you can take down.

In general, rental related real estate, is considered a passive activity.That means, that passive losses, are not eligible to offset income such as wages, interest, dividends,etc.However, I would still argue that real estate is great from a tax perseptive, making $270,000 you are likely in the 30%+ tax bracket when you factor in Federal and state taxes.Rental income, which is normally shielded by depreciation, will not be subject to the 30% tax as would interest and dividends.Best of luck.