PHOTO: FILE
A real estate agent faced criticism for placing a sign outside a recently leased property boasting of a “record price” amidst a rental crisis. The swift and severe backlash questioned the propriety of such a declaration given the challenges renters are enduring. Despite this, the agent defended the action, citing it as a common industry practice of “advertising for future owners.”
Charbel Kattoura, a real estate agent with Barry Plant, erected the sign outside a four-bedroom property in Melbourne’s Coburg suburb. However, the image of the sign circulated online, sparking numerous angry messages and accusations of being “un-Australian” and “greedy.”
Kattoura, depicted on the sign with the declaration “Leased for a record price in Coburg,” expressed surprise at the backlash, stating he was simply fulfilling his duty to secure the best outcome for property owners who hired him.
Amidst the challenging housing market, Kattoura highlighted the struggle of balancing the needs of both property owners and tenants. He emphasized the financial burdens property owners face, including mortgages, insurance, rates, and maintenance costs.
As housing affordability declines and rental prices soar, more Australians find themselves unable to purchase homes. Despite accusations of favoring homeowners, Kattoura asserts that he has often gone the extra mile to assist struggling renters, reaching out to other agents to help find housing solutions.