. , but judging from the posts I've read, he's also a hands-on landlord with clear experience working on his own properties himself in the past.

How does someone judge the value of the house if you're not getting an appraisal?

Judging by the details provided you are going to have a difficult time getting an answer.

What they declare to the government is what they make.

The judge issued a continuance until next week so my PMs can get statements from the other tenants.  

(since my tenant doesn't have renters insurance and my Condo declarations holds owner responsible)At this point it doesn't appear I will be on the hook for any monetary loss other than my insurance deductible. 

Here's what my landlord (property manager) has found ...When it comes to the point of eviction, the judge always awards the amount of the rent due - no discounts.

I don't know how things are in Philly, but over here, being a hardcase at this time really wouldn't play well in front of a judge, if push came to shove.

The risk of bringing a lease to court with illegal clauses is that the judge could deem you not credible because you are trying to enforce an illegal contract. 

As I’ve read, I can only purchase this house at what it appraised for at the judges descretion of approving the sale.