It was a set of very unfortunate circumstances that were mostly out of my control, yet I ended up paying the price, in multiple ways.

It's very difficult to legally force someone to purchase a property in SC, especially given the circumstance.

It sounds like the mother was, unfortunately, enabling the family and the rest of the family can't keep things together.

Obviously circumstances will vary, but is there an overall financial strategy to one or the other?

Human nature is funny this way, we forget quickly and get used to new circumstances fast.

If legal fees are too much for you, you might be able to share with other investors in your same circumstances. 

Unfortunately the tenant didn't actually sign the lease until Monday, so we couldn't call for the CO inspection until then.

Unless it was a job only I knew of...They sound like motivated people and unfortunately their best bet may be unemployment Insurance for now.You are doing them a tremendous service by working with them- do not frustrate yourself trying to find jobs that don't exist right now.

@Ryan Daigle and @Spencer Gray I think that both of you make good points under normal circumstances. 

Unfortunately like most of the government rules they are unclear.