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  • Comment Detail

  • Date: 06/21/23
    First Name: Monserrath
    Last Name: Sanchez
    Email: monserrath@faithinthevalley.org
    Organization Type: other
    Organization: Faith in the Valley

  • Comment

    The rent is unreasonably high, and it's time for the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to step in and protect tenants. I strongly believe that the FHFA should implement measures to limit annual rent increases to 1.5 times the Consumer Price Index or 3%, whichever is lower, for properties with federally backed mortgages. These limits should be universally applied as a requirement for all federally backed mortgage programs.

    However, controlling rent hikes alone is not enough. To truly safeguard tenants' rights, the FHFA should take further actions. Firstly, it should prohibit evictions without good cause, ensuring that tenants cannot be displaced arbitrarily. Secondly, it should enforce a ban on source of income discrimination, which prevents landlords from denying housing based on the source of a tenant's income, such as housing vouchers or government assistance.

    Moreover, the FHFA should expand and strengthen existing protections against discrimination to ensure fair treatment for all tenants. This includes protecting individuals from discrimination based on their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status.

    Another important step is to establish regulations that require safe and accessible housing conditions. Tenants deserve to live in environments that meet proper safety standards and are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

    To improve transparency and accountability in the rental market, the FHFA should create a comprehensive landlord registry. This registry would provide essential information about landlords, ensuring that tenants have access to important details and can make informed decisions.

    Lastly, the FHFA should mandate fair and standardized leases to prevent unfair and exploitative rental agreements. Clear and standardized lease terms would help protect tenants from unexpected clauses or conditions that could harm their rights.

    By implementing these measures, the FHFA can play a crucial role in protecting tenants, ensuring affordable and fair housing for all. It's time to take action and address the issue of skyrocketing rents.