I cant help on the squatter issue as with my rentals as I have never had an issue removing someone. I have had to evict 2 individuals and its a pretty easy and straightforward process....t least in LaSalle county, Illinois. Serve them eviction notice with a trial date, show up at trial (these folks typically cant afford a lawyer) and show non payment in front of judge. Judge asks tenant when they will pay and if they cant he asks me how long til you want them out. They usually give them at least 2 weeks to a month and he make the judgement against them. And yes, even if its winter and they have kids. IF they want to challenge it they have to pay upfront the court costs for that afternoon. Its a good system in my location.