Flash Shelton, a former California handyman, found himself in a unique situation after trying to remove squatters from his mother’s house following his father’s death in 2019. Law enforcement was unable to help, so Shelton took it upon himself to research laws and loopholes to remove the squatters. By establishing his rights to the home before the squatters, he was able to successfully reclaim the property by switching places with them and putting up security measures like cameras. He shared his experience on social media and went viral, leading him to help other homeowners facing similar situations.
Shelton, now known as the “Squatter Hunter,” offers his services nationwide through video conferences and in-person visits. His family is supportive of his work, although they have concerns about his safety. Shelton’s passion for fighting bullies and his dedication to helping others drives him to travel two to three weeks out of the month to confront squatters. He spends a significant amount of time preparing for each case and approaches the situations with a goal in mind to get the property back. Despite the risks involved, he feels an adrenaline rush when on location.
In one case, Shelton encountered a woman who posed as a caregiver for an elderly woman in Culver City, California, and was living inside the home by climbing in and out of a window. She was determined to own the house once the elderly woman passed away, despite having no access to basic amenities. Shelton works with homeowners by having them sign month-to-month leases depending on the situation and informs law enforcement before attempting to force out the squatters. Laws regarding adverse possession or squatters’ rights vary from state to state, and Shelton emphasizes the importance of separating legal residency from illegal entry.
Shelton warns homeowners to be prepared and ready in case they are concerned about potential squatters on their property. He advises installing cameras that can be viewed remotely and a locking mailbox to prevent squatters from sending mail to the house. Homeowners should also be vigilant and immediately contact law enforcement if they suspect an intruder. Shelton urges homeowners not to risk their lives over property and stresses the importance of taking necessary precautions to protect themselves and their homes. Each state has different laws regarding squatters’ rights, and homeowners should familiarize themselves with the regulations in their area to avoid potential conflicts with unlawful inhabitants.
Flash Shelton’s unique career as a “Squatter Hunter” began when he helped evict squatters from his mother’s house and shared his experience on social media. His dedication to helping others facing similar situations has led him to travel across the country to confront interlopers and reclaim properties on behalf of homeowners. Shelton’s family supports his endeavor, recognizing his commitment to fighting bullies and protecting property. By utilizing security measures and legal strategies, Shelton has been successful in removing squatters and assisting homeowners in safeguarding their homes. His advice on dealing with squatters and protecting property serves as a valuable resource for those facing similar challenges.
