As far as the basements are concerned, make sure you can put bedrooms down there first.

Stay away from those large projects until you have contractors that will do what u want everyday, the contractors cause the majority of headaches on these jobs, good luck in the futureBigger is not betterStay small

Owner is very concerned about tax implications and firm on price.

Speed at which interest rates have climbed is more of concern that interest rates themselves.

You are within your rights to do so.If you are concerned about it enough then seek out a RE attorney and pay them $100 for 20 minutes of advice. 

Josh, I like your answer and it has caused me to re-think my plan. 

It it's actually touching your building and could potentially cause damage, the other owner should pay for it but I don't know if you can actually force them to do it.Call your City and ask for guidance.

However, you are a landlord, your only concern should be if they pay their rent on time, keep your place clean with no damages and are not doing any criminal activity in your property. 

She'll probably turn it around pretty soon and be a great tenant for years to come, never causing damage to the property, won't give you excuses, and will always pay on time. 

The comments you made about some repairs would be a concern windows deck etc...3.)