In early ’09, when many owners of condo developments were having trouble selling units, they began offering them to renters instead. But now, the buyers are coming back and the tenants’ leases aren’t up yet, says the New York Times. In order to show an in-use apartment to potential buyers, a real estate agent needs permission from the renters, “who are not as motivated as owners to keep it in museumlike shape for viewing… there’s often a wife, a baby and a nanny at home — and the corresponding toys and other evidence of family life.” (Of course, “evidence of family life” is an altogether different beast from the, um, “evidence of bachelor life” pictured above.)

The article cites several Manhattan landlords who are facing this situation, but has anyone noticed that this is becoming an issue in Brooklyn, too? And while it’s certainly annoying for landlords and potential buyers to deal with occupied apartments, isn’t it just as unpleasant for the soon-to-be-ousted renters?
The Renter Roadblock [NY Times]
Photo by dalasv