You are allowed to go in the property - with notice ot the tenant- to do a safety check.You can check the utiltliey companies to see if they've been turned off by the tenant. 

However, I do understand profit and safety.

On the other hand, I won't put tenants anywhere that I'd be worried for my own safety.  

I'm a newer member here as well, but I quickly became aware of the many experienced investors here that share tons of their experience -feel free to ask questions.My 2 cents: I think single families will be easier to flip, but multi is better for buy and hold if you are prioritizing cash flow, as the NJ taxes make this difficult with a single.

egress windows are for safety more than adding bale in my opinion.

The Marion Housing Code is hereby amended by adding a new exception to Section 404.5 of the International Property Maintenance Code, 2015 Edition, as follows: Exception: The actual number of persons occupying a dwelling unit shall not create conditions that, in the opinion of the Code Official, endanger the life, health, safety, or welfare of the occupants

I'd like to start investing but not sure where is the balance of safety/ROI for me.

ALWAYS use a title company for your safety.

I've filed a complaint with the Texas Attorney General's office (VRBO is based in Austin, TX) and also contacted the Chelsea Health and Safety Department, who have opened up a case and are investigating.

If the hoarding is either a safety issue or a sanitation issue then next up would be to issue a 10-day Notice to Comply.