(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!

This will save you about 25% in taxes on that 1/27th.

Does this idea make senspIf it does, where would be the best place to look for this kind of mortgage.

The area is developing and both abutting properties are being developed.I like your idea on being creative with the footprint of the drainage. 

My only complaint is that they couldn't stick to the agenda to save their life - as an event planner myself, It was incredibly irritating.  

Plan was a long term hold as a short term rental.Step 2 - the plan to fund this project was through the sale of another property and monthly income/savings.

A good CPA will help you save a ton on taxes as your wealth grows.Market Appreciation is where you will make the most money over a 10-year period but is the least predictable.

My question was this, to save time and money, is there a place I would be able to see if a previous soil test has been done, building plans, anything? 

It seems like a neat idea, and wondering if something similar can work in my market, Prague, Czech Republic. 

Running these numbers to see how long it's going to take to recoup that cash out is a good idea Brian.