Jonathan chats with George McCleary, founder of Squatter Defender and Title Fraud Defender, on this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing about an often overlooked aspect of real estate investing: squatters. George, who went viral with his video “I Stole a House,” shares how his companies help real estate investors proactively prevent squatting issues and protect their properties from title fraud. As the Principal at McCleary Realty & Development, George brings experience and practical solutions to this challenging issue.
Jonathan and George dive into the growing issue of squatters and why they are becoming more brazen. George, founder of Squatter Defender, shares some strategies for protecting properties, the challenges of dealing with professional squatters, and why removing them is so complex. Jonathan and George discuss the “cash for keys” approach, George’s viral video “I Stole a House,” and how to avoid becoming an easy target for squatters. The conversation also touches on George’s transition into real estate, his early landlord experiences, and the connection between title fraud and squatting.
Jonathan and George further explore:
- Squatters are becoming more sophisticated, using fake leases, transferring utilities, and using legal loopholes to claim tenancy in a property.
- Remaining vigilant and aware of potential squatter issues can help prevent someone from moving in uninvited.
- Squatting has become professionalized, and that exploitation allows squatters to live in high-dollar properties for nothing.
- Title fraud is easy, and title insurance doesn’t typically cover a property.
If you want to learn how to prevent unwanted tenants in your properties, you don’t want to miss George McCleary’s advice for staying vigilant.
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