Not sure what the NJ eviction laws are but you might want to check on that too.Also in my experience less than half of the properties listed on the auction.com website ever come to auction. 

Inman recently published a Warning about how the Upcoming GDPR Law may Force Every U.S.

We purchased our primary residence about a year ago and have been building out a basement apartment we will be renting out to my mother in law.

Best thing for stopping this problem permanently is removing the tree (aesthetics and city laws notwithstanding). 

If the old Landlord keeps it, I would consider that theft and I think a court of law would agree.If it's not too late, have the tenant put a "stop payment" on the check before it's cashed.If it's too late, notify the old Landlord - in writing - that the money rightfully belongs to you for payment of rent and demand return within XX days or you will file a claim in court.

It is a must for you to read to avoid law suits and other ways you may break the law without knowing it.Good Luck

Austin Law Firm in Southaven.  

I even tried to find a book on Amazon (for Alabama, don't bother), but couldn't get as much info as I was hoping for, especially considering how complicated I'd heard tax sale laws can be. 

Laws are pretty Landlord friendly. 

He and I are both clear that good practices and insurance are #1 but the LLC does have a purpose.