How to Sell a Home with a Squatter or Unauthorized Occupant

Selling a home is rarely a walk in the park—but when a squatter or unauthorized occupant is involved, it can feel more like navigating a minefield. In Florida, where real estate moves fast, finding someone living in your property who shouldn’t be there adds stress, delays, and legal hurdles.

Whether it’s a former tenant who overstayed their welcome or someone who just moved in without permission, you’ve got options. And good news—selling your home isn’t off the table.



904 Home Buyer has helped homeowners in sticky situations like this. Here’s a guide to what you can do, how to protect your rights, and how we can still make a fair cash offer even with an unauthorized occupant on the premises.

Squatter vs. Unauthorized Occupant—There’s a Difference

Let’s break this down. Not everyone in your property without permission is technically a squatter. The distinction matters, especially when it comes to eviction.

• Squatter: Someone who’s living in the property without any lease, permission, or agreement. Often, they move in while a property is vacant or in probate.
  
• Unauthorized occupant: Usually someone who had permission at some point—like a guest, family member, or ex-tenant—but never left.
  
  

Understanding who you're dealing with will shape how you approach the next steps.

Florida’s Squatter Laws—What You Should Know

Florida has strict laws protecting property owners, but squatters can still make things complicated. Here are some key things to understand:

• There’s no instant removal: You can’t just change the locks or kick them out. That could get you in legal trouble.
  
• Adverse possession: This is rare, but if someone lives in your home for 7+ years, pays property taxes, and treats it like their own, they could claim ownership. Don’t let it get that far.
  
• Police may not intervene: If it’s a civil matter, law enforcement may tell you to go through the courts—even if you show proof of ownership.
  
  

Bottom line: the legal system, not DIY tactics, is your route to reclaiming your home.

The Legal Eviction Process in Florida

• Send a formal notice:
  
• 7-day notice to vacate for unauthorized occupants
  
• 3-day notice for tenants who haven’t paid rent (if applicable)
  
• File an eviction lawsuit (Unlawful Detainer or Ejectment depending on the situation):
  This goes through your county court and usually takes 3–6 weeks, depending on complexity and cooperation.
  
• Court hearing and judgment:
  If the judge sides with you, they’ll issue a final judgment for removal.
  
• Writ of possession:
  The sheriff will post a 24-hour notice before returning to physically remove the occupant if they haven’t left.
  
  

It can be frustrating and slow, but it’s necessary to avoid legal blowback,

What You Can’t Do (Even If You're Fed Up)

It’s tempting to take matters into your own hands, but resist the urge. Florida law strictly prohibits:

• Locking the person out
  
• Shutting off utilities
  
• Harassment or threats
  
• Removing their belongings
  
  

Even if it’s your house, doing any of the above could land you with legal penalties—or give the occupant ammo in court.

What to Expect When Selling to 904 Home Buyer

When you work with us, there’s no listing, no open houses, and no long waits. Here’s how a typical process looks when there’s an occupant issue:

• Free property assessment
  We’ll evaluate the home and occupancy status, no judgment involved.
  
• Cash offer within 24–48 hours
  You’re under no obligation to accept, and we won’t waste your time with lowballs.
  
• No agent commissions or repairs needed
  We factor everything into our offer, even legal complications.
  
• You choose the closing date
  Want to get it over with ASAP? We’ve closed in as little as 7 days.
  

Tips for Sellers Navigating Squatter Situations

• Document everything: Texts, notices, photos—keep a record of any communication or proof of unauthorized occupation.
  
• Consult a real estate attorney: Especially helpful if the occupant is aggressive or claims they have legal standing.
  
• Act quickly: The longer they stay, the trickier things get.
  
• Avoid confrontation: Let professionals (like lawyers, sheriffs, or buyers like us) take the lead.
  

Final Word: Don’t Let Occupants Derail Your Plans

Having a squatter or unauthorized person in your Florida home doesn’t mean you’re stuck forever. Whether you want to take the legal route, sell the property with the issue intact, or just explore your options—there’s a way forward.



904 Home Buyer helps homeowners like you move on with less hassle. Even if it’s complicated, we’ve seen worse—and we’re here to help clean it up, no judgment.

If you're ready to talk options, we’re ready to listen.