creativity at its finest. great job. 

So there was really no reasoning with him, he seriously believes he doesn't have to pay taxes.My question is is there any way I can ensure to be in the first position to buy the tax certificate so I don't lose the property?

Do you know of any Denver-area lenders who are open to creative financing agreements such as this?

What are some creative ways to find these sellers?

I don't have personal experience, but if you listen to the podcasts some talk about creative finance and hard money lenders among other types, so I'd look into those

Post some updates too as the portfolio grows so newbies like myself can see the creativeness behind REI!  

Always have a back-up plan and be familiar with creative investing ideas (i.e. owner financing, lease options, rent-to-own, joint venture with contractors, pre-hab wholesaling)

The best way to move forward in our part of the country, in my opinion , is to be creative at finding deals.

Your time here will be well spent.Your profile is empty and there is no mention of a specific REI area of interest, so, I added the below links from three of the most popular niches for your selection of one or all.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/01/07/flipping-houses/ (step by step guide to flips) http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/courses/a-beginners-introduction-to-real-estate-investing (video courses)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/(7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

Is there any creative ways to get these tenants out as fast as possible before closing?