Many property owners never expect to deal with squatters or deed fraud. However, when these situations occur, they can result in costly legal disputes, damaged property and significant financial losses. 

George McCleary, president of McCleary Realty & Development, joins Host Carol Morgan on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio to discuss how squatters exploit vacant properties, why deed fraud is becoming a growing concern and what property owners can do to protect their investments.  

How a Viral Video Sparked a National Conversation 

McCleary first gained widespread attention through his viral social media video, “I Stole a House,” which highlighted how people can exploit legal gray areas to occupy vacant properties. 

While the video was intended as satire, it resonated with property owners across the country and generated millions of views. It also prompted countless conversations about a problem many people assume could never happen to them. 

“It’s rare enough. It’s sort of like rare, like a heart attack,” said McCleary. “It’s probably not going to happen to you today, but if it does, you have to take it very seriously.” 

Why Squatters Can Be Difficult to Remove 

Many people assume law enforcement can immediately remove someone who unlawfully occupies a property. In reality, squatters often take deliberate steps to make themselves appear to be legitimate tenants. Experienced squatters frequently move belongings into a home, establish residency and present forged lease agreements when confronted. These tactics can create uncertainty for law enforcement officers responding to the scene. 

“These professional squatters, they are experts at blurring these lines,” he said. 

Once questions arise about tenancy, property owners may be forced into lengthy legal proceedings. The process can involve attorney fees, court costs and months of lost rental income before a property is recovered. Even after regaining possession, owners may face additional expenses to repair damage and replace stolen appliances, fixtures or building materials. 

Why Deed Fraud May Be an Even Bigger Threat 

Following the success of his viral video, McCleary began hearing from property owners across the country who had experienced another type of real estate crime: deed fraud. 

In these cases, criminals forge ownership documents and file them with local governments, creating the appearance that a property has changed hands. Once the fraudulent deed is recorded, scammers may attempt to sell the property or borrow against its equity. What makes deed fraud particularly dangerous is that owners often do not discover the issue until significant financial damage has already occurred. 

“You can’t prevent somebody from falsifying a deed and filing it with the county,” he said. “The thing that you can prevent is the theft of your equity.” 

The faster fraudulent activity is detected, the easier it becomes to stop a sale, prevent unauthorized loans and begin restoring ownership records. 

Who Is Most Vulnerable? 

While any property owner can become a victim, investors, aging homeowners and owners of vacant properties are among the most common targets. 

Investors often own multiple properties and rely on managers to oversee day-to-day operations, making it easier for fraudulent activity to go unnoticed. Older homeowners frequently have substantial equity, which can make them attractive targets for scammers. Builders, agents and sellers should also pay close attention to vacant homes. Unoccupied properties can provide opportunities for squatters to establish residency before anyone realizes a problem exists. 

Prevention Starts With Early Detection 

While no solution can eliminate risk, property owners can significantly reduce their exposure through proactive monitoring. For vacant properties, McCleary recommends installing alarm systems that provide immediate notifications when someone enters a home unexpectedly. Quick action can often prevent a squatter from establishing residency and turning a trespassing incident into a legal dispute. 

Routine property inspections, title monitoring services and regular oversight can also help property owners identify potential problems before they become costly legal battles. 

The Financial Stakes Are Higher Than Many Realize 

Both squatting and deed fraud can carry substantial financial consequences. Property owners may face lost rental income, legal expenses, property damage and, in some cases, the loss of significant home equity. 

“The financial stakes of each of these squatting or title fraud cases eclipses the six-figure mark over $100,000 regularly,” he said. 

As awareness of these issues grows, some states have begun strengthening laws related to squatting and property fraud. However, prevention, monitoring and education remain the most effective tools available to property owners. 

About McCleary Realty & Development 

McCleary Realty & Development is a Portland-based real estate investment, development and brokerage firm led by President George McCleary. In addition to helping clients navigate real estate investments and development opportunities, the company provides educational resources and monitoring solutions focused on preventing squatting, deed fraud and fraudulent liens. Through programs such as Squatter Defender and Title Fraud Defender, McCleary helps homeowners, investors and real estate professionals protect their properties and preserve their equity. Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio listeners can receive 20% off either program with the code AREF26. To learn more, visit https://www.McClearyRealty.com/.  

Podcast Thanks      

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About Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio      

Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, presented by Denim Marketing, highlights the movers and shakers in the Atlanta real estate industry – the home builders, developers, Realtors and suppliers working to provide the American dream for Atlantans. For more information on how you can be featured as a guest, contact Denim Marketing at 770-383-3360 or fill out the Atlanta Real Estate Forum contact form. Subscribe to the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast on iTunes, and if you like this week’s show, be sure to rate it. Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio was recently honored on FeedSpot’s Top 100 Atlanta Podcasts, ranking 16th overall and number one out of all ranked real estate podcasts. 

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