I'm a 4E0X1 (Public Health).

Read this guide if you haven't already.http://www.phila.gov/health/pdfs/LandlordGuidance_...You'll need to double check the market price is for Philly, but inspectors in my area will charge a few hundred dollars (Say $250 to $500) for most residential properties.

We don't do it for our health.

@Dave Foster they are all great advice, however, with the depreciating health condition, my friend doesn't want nor have the luxury to do all that.

The city is changing and recomposing itself and quite a few D neighborhood slums in close proximity to the health care and technology job centers within the city are reversing course and turning back into C neighborhoods.Your biggest problem isn't the financing you think it might be.

I found that I have a low risk tolerance, and I "need" steady income for health insurance and to make sure that the mortgage gets paid.

Do not think you can get away with keeping base cabinets and saving existing tub surrounds if the water got that high.  

Check with the social worker at the mental health unit where she was sent.

This is a Pontiac tax auction home acquired for 25k with an ARV of 80k undergoing approx a 20k rehab. 1 opinion says to add glass door to tub/shower (cost $500), other says keep it simple and roomier with just curtain rod and let the buyer finish it off.

I am taking a risk while waiting for the health inspector and fire inspector to perform their walk through to check the last few issues, but from what I understand, this industry is full of calculated risks.