Selling a House with Squatters:
Are you struggling with selling a house with squatters? Having unauthorized occupants in your property can complicate the selling process, leading to legal, financial, and logistical challenges. Whether you own a vacant home or a rental, understanding squatter laws, eviction procedures, and the best-selling strategies is crucial.
At [Company Name], we specialize in buying homes with squatters, helping homeowners sell quickly without dealing with lengthy legal battles. This guide will cover who squatters are, how to remove them legally, and how to sell your homeβwhether occupied or vacant.

What Are Squatters?
A squatter is someone who occupies a property without the owner's permission. While this might seem like a straightforward case of trespassing, state laws often provide certain legal protections for squatters.
How Do Squatters Gain Rights?
Under some conditions, squatters can claim adverse possession, which grants them legal ownership if they occupy a property continuously for a specific period.
Common Squatter Actions:
- Changing locks to prevent the owner from re-entering.
- Refusing communication with landlords or authorities.
- Making unauthorized changes to the home, such as repairs or renovations.
Without proper legal action, squatters can establish residency rights, making their removal more complicated.
What Is Adverse Possession? β Investopedia
Understanding Squatters' Rights & Legal Eviction in New York
Even though squatters occupy a home without permission, they still have tenant-like protections under local laws. Forcing them out illegally can lead to fines or legal action against the homeowner.
Steps to Evict Squatters Legally
1. Document the Situation
- Take photos and videos of any property damage or occupation.
- Keep written records of any contact with squatters.
2. Notify the Authorities
- File a police report for trespassing.
- If law enforcement doesnβt intervene, proceed with legal eviction.
3. Serve a Formal Eviction Notice
- Provide a written legal notice to vacate the property.
- Timeframes for compliance vary based on state and local laws.
4. File an Eviction Lawsuit
- If squatters refuse to leave, initiate a formal unlawful detainer lawsuit.
- Ensure all necessary documentation is ready for court proceedings.
5. Enforce the Courtβs Ruling
- After the court grants an eviction order, law enforcement will remove the squatters.
How to Legally Evict a Squatter in New York β New York State Unified Court System
Preparing Your Home for Sale After Squatters Are Removed
Once squatters vacate the property, restoring the homeβs condition becomes a priority. Many properties suffer damage, vandalism, or hygiene issues after illegal occupancy.
Key Cleanup & Repair Steps
Deep cleaning & sanitization β Remove odors, pests, and waste.
Fixing property damage β Repair locks, doors, windows, and fixtures.
Restoring utilities β Ensure plumbing, electricity, and HVAC systems function.
If extensive repairs are necessary, selling the home as-is might be a better financial decision.
How to Restore a Vandalized Home β BiggerPockets
How to Sell a House with Squatters in New York
Selling a property that previously housed squatters can be challenging, but homeowners have multiple options.
1. Traditional Sale Through a Real Estate Agent
- List the home on the market with full disclosure.
- Make necessary repairs to attract buyers.
- Price the property competitively to offset potential concerns.
Challenges:
Traditional buyers may hesitate due to the home's history.
High repair costs can cut into potential profits.
The sale process can take months.
2. Sell the Property As-Is for Cash
Fastest & Easiest Solution!
Selling to a cash home buyer in New York eliminates the need for repairs, showings, and long waiting periods.
No Repairs Needed β Sell the home in any condition.
No Showings or Open Houses β Skip staging and buyer negotiations.
Fast Closings β Receive a cash offer within 24 hours and close in 7 days or less.
We Buy Houses with Squatters in New York β Get a Cash Offer Today
Need to sell a house with squatters fast? At [Company Name], we specialize in purchasing homes in ANY condition, including those with past or current squatter issues.
Why Sell to Us?
Receive a No-Obligation Cash Offer Within 24 Hours
We Handle Legal Evictions & Squatter Removal
No Repairs, Cleaning, or Renovations Required
Close in as Little as 7 Days
Call us today at [Your Phone Number] for a FREE cash offer!
Visit [Your Website] to request a no-obligation quote.
Also Read:
How can I sell a hoarder house