Rising Above Price Gouging: How One AAOA Member Brings Hope to Displaced Families Amid L.A. Fires

Provided by America Apartment Owners Association

As Southern California faces one of its most devastating fire seasons in recent history, the rental housing market in Los Angeles has seen troubling trends. Thousands of families displaced by the fires are struggling to find housing, and in some cases, rents are spiking alarmingly in areas affected by the destruction.

A recent investigation revealed a Bel Air home listed at $29,500 per month—nearly double its September price of $15,900. While the listing was later removed, the spike in rental costs reflects a troubling phenomenon: post-disaster price gouging. California law prohibits price increases of over 10% during a state of emergency, yet reports of rental price hikes continue to surface.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta urged residents to report suspected price gouging. “If prices look really out of whack—if they’ve increased from what you’re used to—report it to us. We’ll take it from there,” he said.

Michael Lens, an urban planning professor at UCLA, noted that the sudden influx of displaced residents is putting immense pressure on the rental market, particularly in communities adjacent to the impacted areas.

A Positive Response Amid the Chaos: Ratner Property Management

While some landlords have capitalized on the crisis, others are stepping up to support their communities. Ratner Property Management and Maintenance, an AAOA member, is one such example. They’ve taken meaningful action to assist displaced families and individuals.

“To our Los Angeles County communities: As the fires continue to impact families, friends, and loved ones, we at Ratner extend our deepest sympathies to everyone affected by this catastrophic devastation,” said Dena Palmer, a representative of Ratner Property Management.

Palmer explained how Ratner is working with property owners and landlords across Los Angeles County to offer special accommodations to displaced families such as month-to-month leases and waived move-in fees. Additionally, the company is providing free appraisals and assessments for fire-damaged properties.

“We aim to help families and individuals find safe spaces as Los Angeles rebuilds. For those whose homes have been damaged and require substantial renovations or cleanup due to fires and related damages, we offer free appraisals and assessments for debris and repairs,” Palmer emphasized.

Ratner’s commitment to aiding the community is a beacon of hope during these challenging times. Their team has been serving Southern California for over a century, demonstrating resilience and care when it’s needed most.

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Taking a Stand Against Price Gouging

The actions of Ratner Property Management and others like them highlight the importance of community support and fair practices in times of crisis. As landlords, property managers, and renters navigate the fallout from these fires, AAOA encourages its members to act with integrity and compassion.

If you witness or experience price gouging, report it through the California Attorney General’s website. Together, we can ensure that the recovery process is equitable and supportive for everyone impacted.

By showcasing both the challenges and the inspiring actions of members like Ratner, AAOA hopes to encourage others in the industry to lead with empathy and action during this time of need.

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