Stair safety is nothing to take lightly. 

There are a few good books on the topic:- Performance Anxiety by Gordon Moss- Note Investing Made Easier by Martin Saentz- The Art of Investing in Distressed Second Mortgages by Sherman ArnowitzKnow that these books were written when more distressed junior liens were available, and they all focus on institutional paper. 

It was more or less a ruby in the rough (not a diamond), but it could profit significantly.To shed more light on the condition of the house; it desperately needed a paint job, and landscaping on the outside.

Such repairs should be made, simple improvements, hardware, doorknobs, light fixtures can add value.

With FHA you can get really good rates, and they allow light cosmetic rehab.

I like the sterling oak color which goes really beautifully with light grey paint. https://www.homedepot.com/p/LifeProof-Sterling-Oak-8-7-in-x-47-6-in-Luxury-Vinyl-Plank-Flooring-20-06-sq-ft-case-I966106L/300699284

I'm not sure how much time you need to manage contractors to take calls, and if a good amount of it can wait till the evenings or weekends- maybe someone can shed some light on this.

<coldblooded>I feel sorry for the person who tried to off himself but with my anxiety and paranoia there is no way I could live peacefully with them one wall away from where I lay my head. 

Can you shed some light on the city requirements for landlords?

If you have lights that hang from the walls (not ceilings) and baseboard located plugs, it may (no guarantee) be an indicator that there is knob and tube.