Never rely upon a current owner search to determine the true status of a property’s title.

@Angie Hensley Most states require a lease to identify the owner of a leased property, whether a person, trust, LLC, IRA, etc.Landlord = Lord of the Land = Owner per deedAgent = someone legally representing the ownerProperty Manager = Agent

The apartment owner sent in plumbers, contractors and everyone else they could to investigate but absolutely no one else smelled it.

Just imagine how many vacant homes have squatters and the owners don't even know.

I would suggest following up with the PM and ask if they have proactively provided change of management details (essentially, letting the tenants know that new owner effective 03/29/2024 and were rents should be sent).

Also a small business owner. 

If I continue to get no response from the listing agent, would it be problematic to skip trace the home owner and contact them directly?

@Zach AdamsTax benefits, such as depreciation and deductions for costs associated with rental halves of the property, are available to duplex owners through house hacking.

Once recorded, the owner/seller of the property will not be able to close on the property without addressing this issue, thereby blocking them from cutting you out and selling to another party.Other than that, keep in mind it is VERY difficult to win in court for specific performance to force the seller to sell.Good luck, and keep moving forward!

Given that it's an ADU and you are an owner occupant I would courteously terminate the lease (the how on this is going to depend on your local laws and your lease) and get a new tenant ASAP.