Should We Get Them to Pay or Just Evict Them?

[Eric B.]

My partner and I acquired a house in Abingdon, IL via over the counter sale in late 2019. Two months ago, we found out that there is a couple living in the house. Naturally I assumed they were squatters, so I contacted the local sheriff. The local sheriff told me the people living there have been paying the water bill in that house since 2014. He told us if we wish we could arrange for these people to pay my partner and I rent, but the sheriff would not force them out because they are considered legal tenants. Which makes no sense because they are not paying my partner and I anything to stay there despite the fact that we are the owners, and the sheriff himself even confirmed that.

What would be more beneficial: starting the eviction process or compelling the tenants to pay us rent? Are there any lawyers in the area to recommend in case we decide to evict? I've never evicted anyone, and definitely need advice in that matter!

We have prospective buyers for this house. But they need to see the inside of the house. But we can't get the buyers inside to see until we get these nonpaying tenants out. That's why I must either get them to pay or evict them.

Any advice and/or resources you can offer will be greatly appreciated, by myself and my partner!