by Carolyn Seitz
Some residents in Altadena are reporting the presence of squatters in homes that are for sale or have recently been sold but are in escrow.
The issue was also reported on the news, not for Altadena, but as a growing issue in vacant mansions on the west side of Los Angeles. That story was also on the news in New Mexico.
In Altadena, residents have notice that houses that were empty have furniture in them, but the residents were aware that one home in particular had just been sold on a 30 day escrow. It turns out the furniture may belong to a squatter.
In the news stories, one squatter in particular had a signed lease, but it was signed by him, not the property holder or leasing agent. It was a sham.
This may be another issue about which we all need to stay vigilant.
Help protect your neighborhood and your neighbors.
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Planning and zoning consultant Carolyn Seitz is the Altadena Chamber of Commerce 2010 Citizen of the Year, and an active volunteer with public safety issues in Altadena.
