I've been really heartened by the out pouring of support for our neighbors to the north who have lost homes, clothing, loved ones and more. Volunteers are clamoring to help at local shelters. Gyms are opening so folks can take showers; offices are opening desk space for those needing computer time; food and clothing are available at various shelters and folks are opening up their houses in record numbers to house people.
Yet, there's always another side. In an area already so impacted by the lack of housing inventory, landlords have been gouging tenants in this area for a while now. Housing prices have soared, so they've been getting away with rent increases of up to 50% over the past couple of years.
So imagine my consternation to open my BAREIS MLS to see a price increase on a lease in my town of Novato yesterday.
After sitting on the market for over 30 days (too high already? ), the lease price of $5800, was increased to $7,000.. an increase of $1,200 per month or 21%. How does she justify this? In her own words....
"Call Listing Agent first, supra at door. Agent is owner of property. Short term leasing available due to fires. Increase of price is reflecting all utilities to be included. I have a storage unit of furniture that can be used."
Utilities would never hit $1,200 a month, even in the coldest part of the winter. Furniture is readily available as donations or can be inexpensively purchased at nearby consignment stores.
Who is she kidding?
Sadly, she is a real estate agent.
We're all shaking our heads in the office. What a shame. Greed knows no limit.
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