So it turns out they admitted they cut corners, skipped the required community vote and went straight to construction. 

I got a job at Big White and looking buying to condo there so I can easily take care of it and dip my feet in short term rentals.Thanks for the heads up and look forward to speaking with you more.    

Landlord laws for CO don't appear to be clear cut for abandoned property but I'll keep looking.

I also noticed a lot of homes that seemed like the owner isn't taking care of the place and thought maybe I should leave a letter in their box to see if they'll call me.

So many have paid the price prior, please learn from them.From a Property Manager in Detroit that Loves the City but cares about investors mental stability.     

Can you cut back somehow? 

i believe yes but you have to be careful how you ask - get good legal advice here. - Can we charge her the extra for the "service" dogAbsolutely not presuming it is a legitimate service dog. 

I am trying to cut my expenses down to buy & flip properties.

Just be really careful here. 7% is NOT a good rate for this deal at all, and youre going to have to generate a massive amount of gross income each month to stay solvent.

Really explore financing options as they aren't as cut and dry as residential financing.