All articles tagged with #renters
NYC tenants react to the pied-à-terre tax rollout as city officials report thousands of homeowners receiving exemption forms while only a portion have filed or started exemptions; with about 70% of residents renting, critics say the policy underscores wealth disparities, and the mayor has extended the deadline for exemption proofs.
A wave of property tax reforms has spread across 34 states since 2020, with Florida's November ballot proposing a higher homestead exemption to $250,000 and lower caps on non-homestead assessments, a move that could force municipalities to cut services or raise rents if approved. Oviedo’s potential dissolution of its police department illustrates the local-budget pressure, as leaders warn of a domino effect on funding for police, fire, and parks. Analysts frame this as part of a broader national tax revolt that often benefits long-time homeowners over renters while prompting calls for more exemptions for vulnerable groups.
Window-mounted heat pumps offer a low-cost, DIY alternative to full split systems, delivering heating and cooling in apartments and older homes for about $3,000–$4,000 and avoiding major renovations; they can be moved to a new property but have limited capacity and lose efficiency in very cold weather. Federal subsidies for this equipment expired in 2025, though some utility programs may still help pay the cost; the NYC Housing Authority has begun installing them in some apartments.
Congressional leaders in both chambers voted to ban large institutional investors from buying more single-family homes, a bipartisan move aimed at curbing Wall Street’s footprint in the housing market. While proponents say it signals who’s in charge and could slightly improve inventory in some markets, experts note the effect on affordability is likely limited since institutional owners account for a small share nationwide and much of their stock is leased or in need of repairs. The measure is part of a broader housing package to boost supply, though Senate language requiring seven-year rentals to be sold to individuals faces House opposition and concerns it could hamper new construction. Publicsupport for limits is high, but real-world effects may be modest.
Colorado Gov. Polis signed HB26-1007 to legalize plug-in balcony solar, making Colorado among the first states to clear these systems; however, UL-certified kits exceeding 391 watts are not widely available yet as manufacturers work to meet safety standards ahead of a 2027 start. The low-cost option could help renters cut electricity bills and integrate solar, while utilities cannot block installation after landlord notification; Boulder data suggests an 800-watt setup could save about $206/year.
Lawmakers in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island are weighing bills to allow small plug-in solar panels that connect to home outlets, removing the need for rooftop installations and potentially lowering electricity bills for renters and others without easy access to rooftop solar. The approach mirrors European adoption and Utah’s 2025 lead, but would require updated electrical codes and national safety certifications before widespread sale; costs can reach up to about $2,000, and critics say it won’t be a universal solution, though supporters argue prices could fall with broader adoption and that the technology offers a practical entry point to clean energy for renters and apartments.
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced upcoming 'Rental Ripoff' hearings across all five boroughs to address housing issues, gather tenant testimonies, and combat unfair practices, with a report to follow. He also appointed Dina Levy as the new housing commissioner to help tackle the housing crisis.
Starting January 1, 2023, California law requires landlords to provide all apartments with a working stove and refrigerator, ending a regional trend where tenants often had to buy their own appliances, which has been seen as a barrier for low-income renters. The law aims to improve living standards and reduce costs for tenants, though it faces opposition from realtor groups concerned about increased legal disputes and reduced rental availability. Enforcement will be managed locally, with tenants able to file complaints if landlords fail to comply.
Reporting rent payments to credit bureaus can help renters build credit and improve their financial prospects, but mistakes like late payments can harm their credit and housing opportunities. The trend is increasing, especially with new federal guidelines, but renters should be cautious to ensure accurate reporting and maximize benefits.
A renter in NYC discovers an affordable, cordless, battery-operated wall sconce from Amazon that mimics hotel-style lighting without the need for wiring or landlord approval, offering a stylish and flexible decorating solution for $60.
77-year-old Patricia Brennecke faces the emotional and practical challenges of losing her long-time Oakland apartment in a competitive, digital-driven rental market, raising concerns about housing stability for seniors.
Despite a surge in new apartment construction, US renters face record-high costs and increased financial strain, especially among low- and middle-income households, with rent burdens rising and affordability challenges worsening due to high housing and utility costs, and potential federal funding cuts.
A new NYC law eliminates upfront broker fees, reducing initial move-in costs for renters but potentially leading to higher rents as landlords may pass on these costs, sparking concerns about increased rental prices and market scarcity.
A federal judge has approved the implementation of a NYC law banning most broker fees, which is set to take effect on June 11, potentially reducing upfront costs for renters despite opposition from real estate groups. The law aims to address the financial burden of broker fees on tenants, especially low-income renters, and includes penalties for violations. The ruling clears the way for the law's enforcement, with ongoing debates about its impact on rent prices.
The New York City council has passed the Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses Act (Fare), which eliminates broker fees for tenants, shifting the cost to landlords. This move aims to reduce the high upfront costs of renting in the city, where the median rent is $3,500. The bill, passed with a veto-proof majority, will take effect 180 days after becoming law. While Mayor Eric Adams has expressed concerns about the impact on small property owners, the legislation is seen as a step towards fairness in rental expenses.