I hope you learn from this and hire a quality PM for the next time.I would try two things, simultaneously:1.

I was just following this news today. 

@Sandee SampsonA construction attorney would be who to contact but you are going to spend a lot more than $7000 in getting this resolved against a builder.Also let’s say you win, the courts could also say you didn’t pay for a retaining wall which is needed so it’s a betterment to the property so you would still need to pay for the wall and they would be responsible for some soil etc.

So you may need to supplement more outside money to the purchase.You can always choose to add cash so you end up owning your replacement property with no debt.

I always thought that if I can show them on paper the difference and how much more money they can make that it will be enticing. 

Key steps to find a property owner:Access public records: Go to your local county recorder's office or tax assessor's office.

Decide on what you'd like to focus on as a first step. 

House hack is currently on my mind, possible fixup...

As a quieter person, it’s reassuring to know that others will enjoy sharing their journey, and I’ll definitely use that approach.Also, I’m glad you commented on this post because I actually found this meetup indirectly through your podcast with Andrew Freed.

But I cannot wrap my mind about this.