Purchased Sheriff Sale Prop - Removing Squatter Tips

[Chad Jarrah]

Hello BP! I recently purchased a property through a sheriff's sale in Pennsylvania. I did my homework and the judgement was brought up by a first mortgage lienholder. The house has good equity  to start. I spoke with a few neighbors to get a little info on the house and they were more than willing to provide good info.

Currently the ex-girlfriend of the ex-owner's house is squatting there (actually just leaving her two dogs there and checking in on them periodically). The neighbor's called animal control but apparently the animals are not being mistreated in their opinion. 

Any tips on removing the squatter and the dogs? I get possession of the property June 21st (assuming the deed is processed quickly, which it probably won't but I'm just assuming best case scenario so I'm prepared for the rehab)

Thanks for the help!

[Rick H.]

If you wish to remove a stubborn squatter prior to having a recorded title or other evidence of title, you may be able to have your attorney file complaint for unlawful ejectment.

The dogs can be coaxed by food. I have heard that you can roll a hamburger patty around a children's aspirin tablet to calm a small dog down. I don't know what dosage should be for a large dog but I'd be more concerned with people safety. 

I have a few similar ideas for dealing with the squatter but not about to post here.