You'll want to talk to a local probate attorney to see how much time that could take.If the squatter is not making mortgage payments, you've got perhaps another month or two before the lender begins foreclosure proceedings.In your situation, I would approach the squatter to see inside the property to assess the condition.

You could arrange payments with them (eg $1K a month for the next year with interest).

Could you gift the down payment to your mother in law so she can buy it and then transfer title to you when your house is done?

They do, however, have up to 60 days to return a security deposit after a tenant moves out.If an eviction is necessary for nonpayment, landlords are required to send a seven-day written notice of the payment due.

If one moves out and you get half of the rent, reject the payment.

You typically get the monthly payments but also backed by portfolio and not one note.

Think about it: most of them are able-bodied adults who choose to live (mostly) free off the backs of others rather than contribute to society.Rent payments are usually steady, but Section 8 tenants took a lot more work upfront, throughout their tenancy and at the end of their tenancy.

Some of these renters are capitalizing on low interest rates and choosing to buy, but many are unable to buy due to lack of down payment or credit factors. 

Slightly larger rent payment? 

If it's in your name you can look into the potential for a HELOC or potentially refinance to pull out some of the equity you've created, but you'll need to do the math to see if you're payments will increase based on the new loan terms.