Purchasing property but now squatter occupies

[Axelbobo]

Ive done a deal to buy a leasehold property with vacant possession. But now a family member of the vendor has decided to become a squatter in the flat. The vendor is legally able to sell and the squatter may just be a family member with a grievance. He is now prepared to drop the price quite a lot if i still buy since he needs the funds, so this cancels out any ploy tactics to keep a foot in the property. He could sell the vacant property for a realistic price so he has no gain in putting someone in there and then still try to sell and then drop thousands in price (10k)

If i buy, how long is the procedure to get rid of a squatter. Is it always successful?

It has obviously put me off since i need to move in sooner rather than go through a lengthy court situation for the sake of 10k.

Any help?

Jim

[Editor]

The crucial thing here is to make absolutely sure this person is a squatter and not a tenant - ie the present owner has not taken any rent. The solicitors involved need to verify this.
Removing a trespasser should be a quick and relatively straightforward process. You will need a court order and possibly court bailiffs to remove them. Speak with your local court administrator to see what kind of delay there may be - they can be slow. Again, your solicitor involved should be able to give you a good idea of the time, but if they do it for you it will be adding another thousand or so to your bill!

[Axelbobo]

Definately no rent taken. Have been advised that brother is unhappy with sale, feel he has a share in flat, but deeds etc all in the name of the vendor. The squatter believes he can prevent the sale.

I feel if the sale goes through, then he will leave on his own accord. Unless im wrong.

Im 50/50 whether to buy is it could be a long wait for possession.

[P.Pilcher]

In 1977, I bought a 2 bedroom maisonnette from a person who let out to other bedroom to a lodger. Owner told lodger that place was being sold and thought lodger had moved out in due course. I proceeded with the purchase to discover after exchange but before completion that lodger had not moved out bur broken back in to resume residence! Vendor and vendor's solicitor highly embarassed to say the least. Lodger was eventually removed in a further four weeks so that a delayed completion could take place and I moved in. Squatters (who have absolutely no rights) can, I believe, be moved more quickly than lodgers who have almost no rights.

P.P.