1. Eviction Threat Looms for Hamilton Tenants
Over 100 tenants in Hamilton are facing uncertainty as their landlord, DiCenzo Management, begins selling off townhouses on Anna Capri Drive. Heather Mulryan, a single mother renting for 14 years, received a letter in April notifying her of the sale. Despite being unaware her home was a condo, Mulryan now fears imminent eviction after her unit was listed for sale just days later.
“This feels devastating,” Mulryan shared, noting her current rent of $1,000 is unmatchable in Hamilton’s pricey rental market. With one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,600, Mulryan worries about homelessness for herself and neighbors, most of whom are in similar financial straits.
2. Landlord’s Plans and Tenant Concerns
DiCenzo Management plans to sell over 100 units across their properties, citing a need to contribute to affordable housing amid low demand for new homes. However, tenants like Mulryan feel blindsided by the potential loss of their homes and uncertain about their rights in the process.
3. Legal Challenges and Tenant Rights
Real estate lawyer Slonee Malhotra warns of potential legal hurdles for DiCenzo Management, especially regarding tenant rights and the disclosure of condo status. Tenants may have the right to refuse eviction or even purchase their units before they are sold to new buyers.
4. Community Response and Advocacy
As the situation unfolds, advocacy groups like Hamilton ACORN are rallying tenants to challenge the evictions. Mulryan and others are preparing to fight for their homes in the face of what they see as an unfair and uncertain housing market.
5. Impact on Hamilton’s Housing Crisis
The sale of these units comes at a time of heightened concern over housing affordability in Hamilton. With rental prices escalating and vacancies scarce, many residents are struggling to find suitable housing options. The loss of these rental units exacerbates the city’s housing crisis and puts additional pressure on already stretched resources.
