A retired couple’s dream of settling into a $2 million home in New York City with their disabled son turned into a distressing ordeal due to a squatter’s refusal to vacate the property.
Susana and Joseph Landa, both 68, had chosen a house in the serene neighborhood of Douglaston, Queens, for its proximity to family members, aiming to provide a supportive environment for their son Alex who has Down syndrome.
Their anticipation for a peaceful retirement was shattered when they encountered Brett Flores, a 32-year-old who claimed to have a living arrangement with the home’s previous owner, according to a report by ABC 7.
“I just want to know that I can die tomorrow and he’s next to his brother,” Susana Landa remarked to the outlet.
The Landas’ attempts to reclaim their property have been met with legal and bureaucratic challenges, highlighting the complexities of New York’s housing laws. Despite purchasing the home in October 2023, they have been unable to move in due to Flores’ occupancy. Flores, who had been employed by the previous homeowner as a caretaker, asserts he has a “license” to remain in the house, a claim that has significantly delayed the Landas’ plans.
“It has become a nightmare, a total nightmare,” Joseph Landa said.
Flores’ presence in the house since the former owner’s death in January 2023 has not only prevented the Landas from moving in but also led to financial burdens. The couple has been responsible for all property-related expenses, including utilities, which have surged due to Flores’ alleged habit of leaving windows open, causing heating costs to skyrocket.
“We couldn’t believe it, we could not believe it,” Susana said.
The legal framework in New York offers protection to individuals who have resided in a property for 30 consecutive days or more, complicating the Landas’ efforts to evict Flores. Despite not having a formal lease or paying rent, Flores’ actions, such as listing rooms for rent online and filing for bankruptcy, have exploited these protections, further entangling the situation in legal proceedings.
“If you have no lease and you’re not paying rent, what is your right?” Joseph asked.
As the Landas’ navigate through multiple court hearings and anticipate a landlord-tenant court decision, the couple remains in a state of uncertainty, their dream home ensnared in a legal limbo.
“It’s very crazy, our system is broken,” Susana said.
“It makes me feel completely forgotten in this legal system, unfair, and not able to do anything,” Joseph Landa added.
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