Figured I should share this since it took me a while to figure out.
Since Ubuntu 17.10 already comes with Python3.6 installed it, its the best and easiest to install Steem on it. Since Ubuntu 16.04 is a bit wonky now.
When ever you set up a new Ubuntu server make sure to update it.
$ sudo apt-get update
$ sudo apt-get upgrade
Now after its done updating, you can start the Steem-python installation
$ sudo apt install python3-pip
$ pip3 install setuptools
$ pip3 install scrypt
$ pip3 install wheel
$ pip3 install pytest
$ sudo apt-get install libssl-dev
$ pip3 install steem
You should now have Steem installed to create steem based apps. Enjoy.
Check out on github chronocrypto/install Steem-Python Ubuntu 17.10