Squatters “Un-Squatted” – a story of adverse possession in Texas
By Norma Wall, Broker (Not an Attorney, Not Legal Advice)
Finally! A story about adverse possession that I can support. No — I can applaud!
A couple moved into a vacant home in Tarrant County without buying it. They broke in, changed the locks and set up housekeeping. This hostile act could start the process of long-term adverse possession.
Adverse possession in Texas is a legal concept allowing an individual to acquire ownership of someone else’s property through continuous, open, and hostile possession for a certain period. Learn more about Adverse Possession in Texas .
While this may or may not meet all of the criteria for adverse possession, it is nonetheless destructive to the neighborhood’s value, peace, and well-being.
Same profession – better dressed.
Adverse Possession is not a victimless crime.
Who do you think will ultimately pay the price for this criminal act? Only every homeowner!
- Every homeowner who is struggling to make ends meet is the victim.
- Every homeowner trying to construct a mortgage loan to buy a home is the victim.
- Every homeowner living in the neighborhood and experiencing the devaluation of their property is the victim.
If this behavior is not corrected or punished, it will continue, and everyone else will pay the price—one way or another.
The offending couple now faces burglary charges.
Vacant properties are the perfect target for those wanting to take adverse possession in Texas. This is especially true for pre-foreclosure property since the legal process gives them time to live in the house before discovery.
Unfortunately, some homeowners abandon their property when faced with foreclosure. The property is then exposed to an opportunist who breaks into the house, takes possession, sets up housekeeping, and justifies their actions by taking advantage of legal loopholes or outdated laws.
They move into the property — as though they have earned the right to do so!
I’m glad to see more aggressive action against this type of crime.
Thank you, Tarrant County, for taking action!
What can you do?
Nothing but harm can come from this type of activity. Squatters are NOT known for improving the property or being friendly neighbors. If they attempt to conduct the high-dollar activity of adverse possession, it’s probably not their only crime (where do you think they get all the “stuff” they put into the house?).
Perhaps your neighborhood, home, and family are not quite as safe with a squatter as your neighbor. Protect your neighborhood.
Watch your neighborhood and report suspicious activity.
Not intended to be legal advice. Want to know more about Adverse Possession in Texas? Ask a Lawyer!
Okay, I’ll get off of my soapbox now…Norma Wall
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