Nova Scotia House-Flippers Face Legal Battle Over Property Sale
In a shocking turn of events, a Nova Scotia couple who invested $600,000 in renovating a bayside home have been informed by the Canadian Department of Justice that they are not allowed to sell the property. Lorna and Ian Tenniswood, a determined house-flipping duo, have accused the local government of unlawfully auctioning off the house, and are now working with various government departments to find a legal resolution.
The Tenniswoods purchased the property in 2021 for a mere $50,000, after a favorable ruling in their favor at a small claims court. However, their excitement soon turned into frustration when they were unexpectedly barred from selling the recently renovated home. The Justice Department promptly filed a lawsuit against the couple, claiming that the local sheriff’s department, responsible for conducting the auction, had failed to notify the previous owner, Mehdi Martin, of the impending sale.
Interestingly, the Tenniswoods had been hired by Martin to carry out repairs on the property but were not paid in full. Consequently, they sought justice through the small claims court, which ultimately ruled in their favor. Unfortunately, Martin failed to respond to any correspondence from the sheriff’s department regarding the potential auction, resulting in the sale of the property.
What makes this situation even more concerning is the fact that the changes within the Department of Justice were triggered by this very case. The Tenniswoods’ ongoing legal battle may have significant implications for Martin as well, as he could potentially reclaim the house depending on the outcome of the lawsuit, which is scheduled for August 2024.
The Tenniswoods, who had poured their heart, soul, and a considerable sum of money into transforming the property, find themselves in an incredibly frustrating predicament. Determined to find a solution, they are now joined back-to-back with government departments to prove their innocence and secure the right to sell the home that they have worked so hard on.
As the deadline for the lawsuit draws nearer, the Tenniswoods’ story serves as a cautionary tale for other house-flippers and homeowners alike. It highlights the significant risks involved in buying and renovating properties, and the potential legal hurdles that can arise, even months or years after the initial purchase. Only time will tell what the outcome of this legal ordeal will be, but one thing is certain – the Tenniswoods will fight tooth and nail to protect their investment and regain the right to sell the home they have painstakingly restored.
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