LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — In the Paradise Palms neighborhood, a long-standing issue with squatters has plagued residents, with one property becoming a notorious example of the problem. Rose Hokenson, a neighbor of the property in question, has been dealing with squatters occupying her deceased neighbor’s home for nearly four years. Despite repeated interventions by Clark County Code Enforcement, the property remains under the ownership of the previous resident’s relatives, leaving Hokenson waiting for a resolution.
“But it just seems like it has taken forever,” Hokenson said, expressing her frustration with the slow process.
The property has accumulated numerous liens over the years, with the most recent filed last month. Neama Rahmani, President and CEO of West Coast Trial Lawyers, explained that the next significant step is an abatement process, which could lead to a change of ownership.
“The government will have six months from the time of the abatement to file a lien with the county recorder’s office so that everyone knows that there is a lien on the property,” Rahmani said. “The individual will be provided notice, not just before the abatement or clean-up, but after that lien is filed. And if that lien is not discharged by making a payment, then the government actually has six months to foreclose upon the property.”
If the property is foreclosed, it likely will be auctioned, with lienholders expected to receive payment first. Any remaining funds will likely go to the homeowners. However, Hokenson remains skeptical about the squatters’ response to legal proceedings…