Re: 鈥淗ow landlords operate is everyone鈥檚 business,鈥� letter, Dec. 20.
The letter cries out for rebuttal. The writer smears all landlords with the same black brush, concluding that 鈥渁 few landlords in jail [would] 鈥� set a moral standard.鈥�
And she impugns landlords for making 鈥渁s much rental income as the market will bear.鈥�
I have a been a landlord for many years. My motivation has never been altruistic. I risked my life savings in the hope of making a profit. I have always been an ethical, fair landlord and I realize that tenants are struggling in Victoria. Profits are never guaranteed and are sometimes meagre.
Costs incurred by landlords have risen rapidly, such as insurance, utilities, mortgage rates and damage to property that is rarely adequately compensated by preliminary deposits.
Municipalities have increased construction/renovation fees and regulations, while creating long wait times during the application and inspection process.
Income has been restricted through rent controls of various forms. By enacting ever more draconian laws, the provincial government vilifies landlords and panders to renters.
If governments want to assist the homeless and low-income renters, it is necessary to allow investors a reasonable profit. Only then will affordable housing will be built.
Rent controls and discriminatory regulations will only harm those who are most in need.
Investors are fleeing this market and for good cause.
John Billett
Victoria
