Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Re: legal owners want to move in - lease not yet expired

The tenants have the right to be there until the end of the Lease. If you

want them out earlier, you must either have a legal ground (e.g., nonpayment of rent),

or induce them to leave voluntarily (e.g., offer $). You do not have a right to

interfere with the tenancy during the lease period just because you are a new owner.

If they don't move in February, you can (and should: any "self help" or interference

with the tenancy is wrongful and may lead to penalties) file an unlawful detainer ("eviction")

action, and obtain a court order for possession.