Closing Date Passed

[BAMBAMB2]

The closing date on my new home was on May 25 and the previous owner's had 3 days to vacate the home. The three days were up as of midnight May 28. I went over to start preparations to paint and the previous owners where still there along with all their stuff. They told me that the new house they were buying hasn't closed escrow yet and they were staying in what is now my house (I have the keys) until their house closes. How do I leagally get these people out of my new home? Are they now trespassing?

 

[Tracey]

Yes, they are trespassing. File a criminal complaint against them, then start eviction proceedings tomorrow. You can hire a lawyer ($400 + expenses) or visit the local landlord's association and ask where to find an eviction kit. The kit will give you all the forms you need under CA law and instructions how to fill them out. You will be entitled to actual damages ($$ you spend on a hotel and storage unit while they're in your house OR fair rental rate for the house - about $500 a week) + costs + attorney fees. You should be able to get the number up to $2000 - $4000 in no time. Ask for the moon. If they default, you get everything you request in the complaint.

Eviction is a summary proceeding and you should be able to get them out in 3 weeks or so.

Good luck,
Tracey

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This is not legal advice and you are not my client. Double check everything with your own attorney and your state's laws.


[This message has been edited by Tracey (edited May 29, 2000).]