Residents in the Villas at Camp Creek in South Fulton, a suburb of Atlanta, have been facing issues with squatters who have taken over a home on a property owned by a rent-to-own real estate company. Mykah Richard, a member of the homeowners association, described disruptions in the community caused by the squatters, including aggressive fights, large parties, and excessive trash. In addition to the squatters, other violations such as residents allowing dogs to walk off leash have also become problematic.
The South Fulton Police Department has responded to reports of squatting at the property on Kiram Terrace. Individuals have been cited for squatting, and the cases are moving through the court process. Residents have reported that the squatters have been occupying the home for the past year and a half, with multiple instances of eviction occurring in the past. Despite police involvement, the actual eviction process is managed by the Fulton County Marshal’s Office.
Residents believe that the rent-to-own program offered by the real estate agency owning the property, Divvy Homes, has been exploited by the squatters. The general definition of squatting is when someone unlawfully possesses a property, which can occur through means of foreclosure or fraud. In cases of fraud, individuals may use fake identities to rent a home and then stop paying rent.
Efforts to remove squatters through self-help eviction methods can lead to legal trouble for homeowners. Hiring a lawyer specialized in real estate litigation can help property owners navigate the legal process more effectively. The ongoing presence of squatters in the community has raised concerns among residents, as the issue persists despite previous evictions and police involvement. The situation highlights the challenges faced by both homeowners and law enforcement agencies in dealing with squatters occupying properties unlawfully.
