The article (Penticton Western News, Nov.29, Penticton vacancy dips below one per cent) gave some statistics on what the average one bedroom suite now goes for.
Stating, it was just under $780.00 While there may be the odd one at that price, it would more likely be $850 to $900. Does it include utilities? Sometimes people are lucky and they do include utilities. These are usually basement suites, however, where more often than not there is no sound proofing between floors and probably no pets allowed.
I don’t know what CMHC or the City of Penticton thinks affordable housing is, but in reality a one bedroom should be around $700 to $850, and a two bedroom about $900 to $1,100 (this is also dependant on size and condition of suite and whether or not utilities are included). This is what the majority of working people and pensioners can afford (hydro in particular is outrageous).
The inflated housing market has had an impact on what landlords feel they can push for. Bear in mind Penticton does not have a lot of industry. Too many people have to work two or three jobs just to make the monthly demand on living somewhere, or else they have to “buddy” up with someone and split the costs.
When people have to spend all their earnings on just keeping a roof over their heads, how does that help anyone but the landlord?
I am curious to know what the rental charge will be in six-floor purpose-built rental apartment buildings currently under construction.
In addition to rental spaces and costs, there is also the issue of no pets.What is the deal with that? Take an additional damage deposit for heaven’s sake.
Gladys Kusmack
Penticton