Rising Foreclosures May Mean More Squatters
This article was part of a Vendome Group newsletter. Turns out that some of our clients have had squatters as well, running extension cords to common area power outlets and taking showers and using the toilet at the common area pool. Here is the article:
With the housing market in free fall, squatting in foreclosed homes is increasingly becoming a concern. A recent report from the Miami area of Florida illustrates just how bold squatters may become. Apparently, an activist in Miami is helping homeless people move illegally into foreclosed homes.
Florida has become one of the hardest-hit states in the housing crisis. And although local officials in Miami started a foreclosure-prevention program to help homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage, the state has suffered from the nation's second-highest foreclosure rate, second only to Nevada.
Miami has recently passed an ordinance requiring owners of abandoned homes, whether an individual or bank, to register those properties with the city so police can better monitor them. However, with regard to this activist, a Miami spokeswoman has said that there are no actions on the city's part to stop this and that if people trespass into private property, it is up to the property owner to take action to remove those individuals.
Elsewhere around the country, advocates in Cleveland are working with the city to allow homeless people to legally move into and repair empty, dilapidated houses. And in Atlanta, some property owners are paying homeless people to live in abandoned homes as security measure.
From Swedelson & Gottlieb: with foreclosure is increasing, is more and more likely that California community associations will be experiencing squatters. Keep your eyes open. If you need help and there are things you can do, contact our office.
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