Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

purchase house

I need some advice on my situation. I bought a house and closed escrow on June 19, 2009. I will get my house keys next week. There is tenant living in the house I just bought, and I was not sure how to get them out. Can you please give me some advice?


Asked on 6/20/09, 11:31 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: purchase house

You have to evict them. Maybe they will move if you offer them $500, tell them an eviction lawsuit will ruin their credit and they won't be able to get another rental. Some localities, and possibly there are new state laws on the subject, may require you to honor their lease or rental agreement for some periods of time. Talk in person to a lawyer who does evictions.

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Answered on 6/20/09, 11:50 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: purchase house

If that wasn't included in your purchase agreement, then you need to provide a 30- or 60-day notice to quit, depending on how long they've been there. Or you can try offering them money to move. I would hope that the property is not covered by a rent stabilization ordinance. If it is, you might retain an attorney to deal with the situation.

If delivery was supposed to be of an empty property, you would want an attorney to review everything and take further steps with the sellers.

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Answered on 6/20/09, 11:54 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: purchase house

Advice? Yeah, don't buy a house without requiring the owner to evict the tenants prior to close of escrow. You now have to do it yourself. Hire an eviction service or attorney to ensure it's done right and quickly.

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Answered on 6/22/09, 2:18 pm


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