Malibu Real Estate Agent Warns of Squatter Scams After LA Wildfires
A Malibu real estate agent has warned California homeowners about the need to protect themselves after a serial squatter reportedly targeted the beachfront community for years, a problem she said could become worse after the Los Angeles wildfires.
Liz Benichou, a Malibu real estate agent and lifelong resident of the area, told Fox News Digital that the accusations against Ellie Mae McNulty, an actor and screenwriter, are a “very serious issue” and a “predatory behavior.”
McNulty allegedly swindled dozens of Malibu homeowners over the last decade, charming her way into their lives before becoming a nightmare roommate, according to Vanity Fair. Benichou said that McNulty’s charm and ability to gain people’s trust allowed her to get away with her scheme for so long.
Benichou warned that the wildfires could lead to an increase in squatting scams, as people who have lost their homes may be more vulnerable to scams. She also noted that California’s tenant-favorable laws make it difficult for landlords to evict tenants, which can lead to squatting and other forms of exploitation.
California’s laws, which protect tenants from certain rent increases and evictions, were created to prevent landlords from unfairly evicting renters. However, Benichou said that these laws can also make it difficult for landlords to protect themselves from squatting and other forms of exploitation.
Benichou also warned that the wildfires could lead to an increase in price gouging, as landlords and hotels may take advantage of the situation to raise prices. She noted that California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office is investigating and prosecuting price gouging and has sent more than 650 warning letters to hotels and landlords who have been accused of price gouging.
Benichou urged homeowners to be vigilant and to take steps to protect themselves from squatting and other forms of exploitation. She also called for changes to California’s laws to make it easier for landlords to evict tenants who are not paying rent or are causing problems.
“We need to take a closer look at our laws and make sure that they are protecting both the tenants and the landlords,” Benichou said. “We need to make sure that we are not creating a situation where people can take advantage of others.”