When I sent out my first direct mail campaign, I used a google voice number, and it got disconnected three days before the mailers got sent out.

I have tried calling the current owners but the phone is disconnected but I will try the mail idea.

I also know a landlord who disconnected the thermostat's in each apartment and hooked up new ones in the basement.

I ALWAYS have them run wire for a electric stove and a disconnect for a/c in case we ever want those.

I'm finding it difficult to wrap my head around this entire deal because it seems that there was some sort of disconnect and if the owner were in fact making payments to the bank instead of directly to the owner then how is it that the property is being foreclosed on?

The reason for this disconnect is that in-house counsel rarely spends much time in court. 

The law does not clearly define abandoned but some of the criteria I use is:-Are most of the valuable items removed-Utilities have been disconnected-Neighbors have not witness the occupants in more than 72 hours-A change of address notice in the mail box or tons of mailI would not attempt to enter without notice but it is not illegal to do so at reasonable times. 

Depending on how bad is the foundation state (how many inches you have to correct), is very possible the sewer line will disconnect/break in the horizontal portions.

that might be the main disconnect. 

I immediately assumed that the neighbor was using my vacant property's electricity to power his house during the evening, and had disconnected for the morning, but not cleaned up his evidence yet.