NEW YORK (NewsNation) — A New York City couple purchased their dream home for $2 million and were eager to move in, but they encountered a squatter who had taken residence and now refuses to leave.
The dream home in Little Neck, Queens, was intended to be a sanctuary for Joseph and Susana Landa, who purchased it four months ago. The couple, who have family nearby, purchased the home for their retirement and to care for their son Alex, who has Down syndrome.
The couple bought the three-bedroom, four-bathroom home last fall following the passing of its longtime owner. They said they’ve been unable to move in due to the refusal of the former owner’s so-called “caretaker,” Brett Flores, to leave.
The Landas claim Flores was advertising the home online, offering rooms for $50 per night without paying any utilities.
According to a written statement filed with Queens Civil Court, Flores claims he was hired by the former owner as a personal assistant and caretaker, receiving $3,000 weekly.
He also claims to possess audio recordings from the new owner authorizing him to stay in the home. However, the Landas maintain they have no agreement with Flores.
Some experts suggest the situation reflects a broader issue across the United States. A declining economy, inflation and an increasing sense of entitlement have contributed to a rise in squatting cases, and the eviction process can be both long and costly.
Under New York squatters’ rights laws, it is unlawful for any person to forcibly evict or attempt to evict an occupant of a dwelling who has resided there for 30 consecutive days or more.
The Landas are seeking to evict Flores but will have to wait for a resolution until their next court date in April.