Landlord’s unexpected trick sparks rental frenzy, causing alarm

A familiar sight played out once more in a busy neighbourhood—hopeful renters lined the street, all vying for a chance at a coveted home.

This particular listing, just a short distance from the city centre, offered desirable features and an unexpected price, drawing even more attention amid the ongoing housing challenges.


At first glance, the cost seems steep for a one-bedroom apartment.

However, in the current market, where the median rent in Sydney has soared to $780 for houses and $700 for units, this asking price is a relative steal.

Many Australians, grappling with the worst rental affordability crisis on record, would jump at the figure without a second thought.


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Dozens queued for a Sydney rental, drawn by its below-market $500 weekly rate. Credit: Facebook


Dozens queued for a Sydney rental, drawn by its below-market $500 weekly rate. Credit: Facebook

The internet buzzed with speculation over the landlord's motives.

Was this surprisingly low rent a tactic to ignite a bidding war? The truth, as it turned out, was far more heartening.

The property's leasing agent, Elliot Kazzi, revealed that the landlord was simply a 'real nice bloke' who preferred keeping the rent below market rates.


This decision was a conscious effort to ease the burden on renters, a rare generosity in a market that often seems devoid of compassion.

'This has been his position even with existing tenancies over the years,' Elliot shared.

This approach has won him praise on social media, with locals acknowledging the rent as significantly below the standard for the area.

'Looking at the listing and where it's located, I can see why it's so popular,' one

But this landlord's surprising act of kindness also casts a stark light on the broader issue:

New South Wales is in the throes of an unprecedented rental affordability crisis.


The latest REA Group report paints a grim picture, with median rents reaching new heights and households earning $116,000 annually, finding only 36 per cent of available rentals within their means.

The consequences of this crisis are dire. Homelessness NSW has sounded the alarm, citing housing crises, financial struggles, and family violence as key drivers behind the rise in rough sleepers.

The statistics are alarming: 76 per cent of those seeking long-term housing and 49 per cent in need of emergency accommodation are left without options.

Dominique Rowe, CEO of Homelessness NSW, has called for immediate action, emphasising the need for a 30 per cent increase in homelessness service funding and $2 billion annually for social housing.

The situation is particularly acute for vulnerable populations, including Aboriginal communities, who comprise 33 per cent of homelessness service clients.


This landlord's unexpected trick has sparked a rental frenzy and highlighted the urgent need for systemic solutions to Australia's housing crisis.

As we witness the kindness of one individual making a difference for a few lucky renters, we're reminded of the broader societal challenge that requires attention and action.
Key Takeaways
  • Dozens of people queued for a rental in Sydney's Inner West, attracted by the asking price of $500 per week, which is below the market rate.
  • The landlord voluntarily kept the rent low as a personal preference, sensitive to the challenges of renters.
  • Median rents in Sydney have soared, with houses at $780 and units at $700 per week, making NSW the least affordable state for renters.
  • Homelessness NSW CEO Dominique Rowe states that housing has become unaffordable for many and is calling for increased funding for homelessness services and social housing to address the crisis.
Have you or someone you know been affected by the rental affordability crisis? What solutions do you believe could help alleviate the situation? Your stories and insights are valuable as we navigate these challenging times together.
 

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