Do nothing...the tenant isn't renting that area and has no right to dictate how you use it as long as it poses no security/safety risk to them. 

Let the reader determine which of the responses makes more of an emotional connection.Not saying that's what happened, but an interesting hypothetical... :-)

Sometimes it’s the smartest move to gain liquidity and to secure your position with your remaining properties.

Building out my portfolio with strategic, secure passively cash-flowing assets to continue to build leveraged equity.

Don't make emotional decisions because you are "in love" with the property 

Visa and FinancingYou're correct that securing a mortgage might be challenging without legal status or a W2 job.

Many of our clients have done this and secured much better terms....EricThis spreadsheet decision is based on what you can afford and when you expect interest rates to fall.

Can I use her security deposit to cover these legal fees I've incurred due to her not moving out?

You may or may not wish to fix it since its likely too late to charge the last tenant's security deposit for it and also that it sounds so minor that people didn't even notice it right away.

After securing a deal, your focus will shift to closing, finding tenants, and setting up efficient management.If you haven’t already, building relationships with local agents, contractors, and property managers in PA can save you a lot of time and hassle