Stars of Million Dollar Listing and Selling Sunset are fed up. As the Los Angeles fires continue their devastating course, some folks can’t help but take advantage of the situation.
Since January 7, emergency personnel have been working tirelessly to contain the disaster. Unfortunately, they’ve only been able to do so much. Multiple LA natives have filmed their houses going up in flames. Some only narrowly escaped the fires in the first place.
But there are some silver linings. Many people have banded together to raise money for those affected. On the opposite end of the spectrum, some Californian renters and sellers are attempting to take advantage of those displaced by the natural disaster.
Chrishell Stause calls on realtors with “a moral compass”
On January 15, Us Weekly compiled various quotes from celebrity realtors on the LA housing situation. On his Instagram story, Jason Oppenheim said, “I’ve been searching on the MLS [directory] trying to help displaced families from the fires find rental properties.” He found “dozens” of prices that jumped from around $9,000 up to $12,000.
Jason said he was “all for free market capitalism,” but recognized folks were “blatantly taking advantage” of the tragedy. Meanwhile, Josh Flagg spoke with Fox News, saying, “People [who] were not marketing their homes before are just now taking advantage because you can ask whatever you want for a house.”
Still, Josh held some measure of optimism. “It’s like any disaster,” he said. “In the beginning, it’s a nightmare and then everything just works itself out. But it’s not fun while you’re waiting.” Let’s hope things work themselves out. Chrishell Stause also spoke to her Instagram followers, saying, “Other realtors that have a moral compass, let’s please report to the board.”
You can find resources to help victims of the fires here.
TELL US – WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THESE STATEMENTS? WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE PRICE GOUGING SITUATION?