A real estate agent has been busted for putting up signs outside properties declaring he had just let them at “record prices” during the rental crisis.
Although the backlash was swift and fierce, with many wondering why this was a proud moment when renters were being harmed, the agency said the practice of “advertising to prospective owners” is standard in the industry. I repeated that it was the target.
Barrie Plant real estate agent Charbel Cuttoula went under contract last week after renting a four-bedroom property in Cobourg, on the outskirts of Melbourne's city centre. But after images of the sign were shared online, he has fielded countless angry messages and phone calls and been accused of being “un-Australian” and “greedy”.
He told Yahoo News Australia that while he knows times are tough, he believes many real estate agents are quick to demonize them for simply trying to do their job, and is clearly responding to the backlash. “I was shocked,” he said.
“I didn't make this market go up. I'm hired by the owners as their agent…It's my duty to get the best possible outcome,” he said, adding that investors are also putting pressure on him. I explained in detail what was going on. under.
Struggle to satisfy owners and tenants
Mr Cuttoula said it had been difficult to navigate the housing market and appease both owners and tenants during tense times.
“What tenants don't understand is what owners have to pay. Tenants have mortgages, obviously insurance, water bills, council fees and maintenance fees to pay.” he says.
Housing affordability has fallen significantly as rental and home values soar, with Australia's median rental price hitting a record high this week, and more Australians are unable to afford their own home. There is.
The real estate agent denies claims that it prioritizes homeowners, saying it goes above and beyond to help struggling renters and offers other local services in hopes of helping people find housing. He revealed that he has been in frequent contact with real estate agents.
Agency CEO speaks out on backlash
Lisa Pennell, CEO of Barry Plant Franchise, where Mr Cuttoula is employed, told Yahoo News that the agency had chosen the “highest price” offered for the Melbourne rental property. Instead, he added, he selected the most “suitable tenant” for the owner. Their customers are “moms and dads saving for retirement.”
“In hindsight, I think the sign could have been worded better, but it's normal in any industry to want to talk about business success,” she said.
The sign was removed on Monday, and Cuttoula and Pennell apologized.
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