So while cash-flow-wise, Denver's not a great investment, (discounting creative house-hack and Airbnb/short-term rental strategies), it certainly looks like a great place to own long-term. 

They pretty much always use GMail accounts with some creative "joesmithfunding" name.

What do you do to ensure that the tenant is responsible for security deposit disputes since that is the largest reason for owner lawsuitsHow familiar are you with the newly changed laws that can affect you the owner if they are not used correctly?

Right now you are doing long term rental, before you decide to sell be creative and consider Corporate  housing or long term airbnb rental.

I really, would like to find creative ways to hold on to the land but partner with other investors on building structures if possible.

But that doesn't prevent you from getting creative and using strategies that don't require banks or out of pocket cash. 

If not, are there any other creative financing options we could look into in order to acquire both properties with 5% or less down on both?

I grew up poor, no financial education, and I've learned to be creative to get things.

., 70/30) and the partner would co-sign on the mortgage to ensure that we secure the FHA.

You'll also want to ensure you have a good property manager to look after the upkeep of the property if you are not there to notice anything deteriorating or which may need attention.California is a sort of beastly state when it comes to taxes and filings.