And then there is the whole writing off the expenses thing. 

They will be able to help you write an offer that is going to have a shot at being accepted by the bank, and they will also be able to explain all the hoops you will need to jump through in order to successfully close on an REO sale. 

Didn't use repair or car write off because we invest out of state.

To me, the writing has been on the wall.  

If it is a non-issue, I would write them a formal response stating that the stairway was built to code, decline to reimburse them and remind them that they had ample opportunity to inspect and measure prior to signing the lease.  

There are some costs in a SFR that can get passed to the renter, water fees, in some cases condo fees include heat (heating costs are lower when the tenant is writing the check each month vs turning up temp when it's cold outside), yard maintenance etc.

I have been writing a little paper on the idea, that is how I crystallize ideas, in my head. 

But these are all terrific and writing them in Evernote as we speak!  

A great author who writes a lot of quality articles on REITs is Brad Thomas. 

AFFIDAVIT OF OCCUPANCYApplicant(s) hereby certify and acknowledge that, upon taking title to the real property described above, their occupancy status will be as follows:Primary Residence - Applicant(s)shall occupy, establish, and use the Property as Applicant(s) principal residence within 60 days after closing and shall continue to occupy the Property as Applicant(s) principal residence for at least one year after the date of occupancy, unless Lender otherwise agrees in writing, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, or unless extenuating circumstances exist which are beyond Borrower’s control.