Squatters and Thiefs Keep It Up

[Arron Paulino]

I have vacant properties that have been a struggle to upkeep while they are on the market either to be rented out or sold, whichever comes first. One property had its water heater stolen not once but twice as well as the furnace in the second attempt. Another property continually has squatters even with boards up and bars in front of the windows and doors. Police reports have been made, but I fear that it has been a consistent battle to deal with, especially with investing out-of-state. Property management has been aware of the situation but can only do so much even with constantly redoing what is being removed and repaired. I know it has been costly to replace/repair the damage done especially with the property being vacant and a monthly mortgage payment due as well without any rental income coming in.

Any advice is greatly appreciated. Would love to hear from investors that have been in this type of situation and what has been successful for you in terms of keeping them out and being able to still sell the property and/or rent it out.

[Jay Hinrichs]

Quote from @Adam Bartomeo:

Easy... GET OUT OF CALIFORNIA!

Adam I bet dollars to donuts this is not CA property sounds like D class rust belt or mid west.
Chicago etc.

OP Google Dwags  security systems for houses.. only way to keep folks out.
Also as @Drew Sygit Drew suggests in D class or deep hood areas which is what your describing no one puts in mechanicals until the day the tenant moves in or MAYBE the day before .. This is a classic case of buying in an area you probably should not have and only appropriate for locals who will go to the property the moment tenant moves out remove all the mechanicals themselves and then re install upon tenant move in

why anyone wants to own this type of asset is a mystery to me.. But most get sucked in by cash flow on paper.. when in fact its TRASHFLOW