This evil bastard has a faulty moral compass and has decided to steal from the "rich" (you) and give to the "poor" (himself) by squatting on the premises under the guise of a non-existent or forged lease.Where I in your position, I'd find a FLAT RATE eviction attorney that has experience with these kinds of cases as soon as humanly possible.

Any advice or just moral support is always very much appreciated!

This would boost our savings to about 45% of our income per month. 

Hey Chris Adding value will help boost an appraisal.

Well, if I didn't have to worry about money, I could further my other pursuits (become a financial adviser, build a financial business focused around helping those in crisis, and a little bit of rubbing it in every person's face that has told me I can't do it).I'm still wrestling with this moral dilemma, but one day I'll have it sorted out and could give a more concrete answer.  

Moral of the story to all of us first time flippers: Go to Home Depot first!

This collateral (the land) might have been thrown in last minute to boost NCAV for all I know. 

I have roughly a little more than $3000 in savings, and looking to snowball some secure loans / cards to boost my credit.

I know the idea sucks of having to pay, but try to put your ego/morals/ethics/etc aside and look at the big picture of the $ you'll be making on this sale.

Moral of the story, most of the big banks have overlays, and not every Loan Officer is created equal.