Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Florida

hate to have to leave

When I moved in dwelling 8 years ago,I had a verbal agreement with LL that if I remodel the dwelling out of my own pocket,that I would have option to buy.I have kept up my end of the agreement.I have not been paying rent since I have lived here,that was part of the deal.I have not seen no paperwork on the dwelling ,but it is said that someone else owns the property too.I have permission from that person also to live here,rent free as long as I keep the place up.to my understanding they are feuding over the dwelling.what are my legal rights to stay here? Is there a squatters rights in Fl?I don't here from the original person that I made the agreement with ,for about three years now,but the 2nd person I talk to regularly.I'm confused about my right as a tenant or buyer.If I pay the taxes on the dwelling does that help my chances of owning ? the 2nd person says they will sell it to me but they can't sell unless the other person signs the paperwork.I'm stuck in the middle not knowing anything.I would love to buy this place for I have raised my family here for the last 8 years,we have made it our home.Is there any advice that i could use to stay here?


Asked on 11/24/07, 10:44 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Stuart M. Address Law Offices of Stuart M. Address, P.A.

Re: hate to have to leave

You need to document the deal and get evidence of it in case of a legal dispute. I would try to resolve it yourself and if they try to take advantage of you I would hire an attorney to try to prove the agreement so you don't lose out on all the improvements you made. Right now, you could be evicted and then forced to file a separate suit to seek what you claim are your rights. If you would like to call for a consulation, please call my office.

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Answered on 11/25/07, 5:44 pm
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: hate to have to leave

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

There is no such thing as squatters rights in Florida. There is adverse possession, however. Unfortunately, your occupancy is not what would be considered adverse to the rights of the owners so you would not have any claim of ownership of the property. You should try to make a deal with both of the owners in order to buyout their respective ownership interests.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 11/24/07, 2:50 pm


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