In the instance where your co-tenant over-holds, then the landlord may have a case to hold you both accountable during the over-hold, but should also undertake actions to remove the co-tenant.  

If it is fraudulent, likely someone proposing to have a contract that has expired, or non existent, they will face liabilities for your damages if it is not removed.  

ALSO, frankly, I'm pretty scared that all hell will break loose, and I have 2 tenants move out and I lose my job down the road, all while being responsible to pay a big mortgage (hence why I'm okay to wait for all this until my husband is working too). 

We have removed all carpeting from all rentals and it is the best thing ever. 

My lease then states something to the affect that if any of those things happen we will contact their emergency contact and they will remove their personal belongings promptly and we will take back over the unit within X number of days.  

Many times there are dangers (Sagging beams, loose wires, broken ducts, etc.) but don't assume everything is OK!!!

Yet, it does, so realtors will continue (they've got nothing to loose & potentially a great listing & buyer leads to gain).  

The lien itself is removed. 

It was super easy to install, just removed a panel and shoved it up there.  

@Sally Red flipping is fun, stressful, risky, and you need to know what you are doing or you can "loose the house" so to speak.