Entering home after REO closing - former owners stuff there

[Edward R.]

Hi. Bought a house 28 days ago, closing on it in 4 days.  It was owned by Chase who took it in March.  The owner is apparently not living there anymore and has moved most of their stuff out but left behind alot in terms of furniture, kids playroom stuff, tools, snowblower.  I pass the house all the time and there has been no car there, no lights (power off I believe and water).  the only sign I've seen was the trash can put out once and that was 3 weeks ago and sat there for 2 weeks till I pulled it in.

Being in NY, what are the rules once we close on it?  Do I have to physically pack it up and store it at a rental place?  Can I just put it all in the garage and send him a notice to p/u within an allotted time?  I've tried contacting him a few different way when we bought it but no response.  (wife had worked with him 5 years ago so kind of know who he was)

My plan was; after closing that day, to access the house (drilling out lock if needed) and assess what we need to do (which seems very little).  and change the locks plus throw in a security alarm.  

[Jaysen Medhurst]

Hi @Edward R., I'm not a lawyer, but I'm pretty sure that once you take ownership the contents are yours as well. Especially, since he has vacated the property.

That being said, NY is a very tenant-friendly state, so it's probably a good idea to pay a few hundred bucks and get an actual attorney to weigh in.