Why this text from a real estate agent in Melbourne has led to reactions: 'What an absolute shame'
A real estate agent has sparked outrage after informing a potential tenant via text message that he was suddenly increasing the advertised price due to high demand.
The tenant was preparing to inspect the property in Melbourne when he received the text message from the agency.
They said the property was advertised at $600 per week but was increased to $650 per week due to high demand.
“Due to the overwhelming response to this property, we have had to change the weekly rental amount to $650,” it read.
'The open tonight will still take place at 5 p.m. Kind regards, Nelson Alexander.'
Journalist Jacqueline Felgate shared a text (above) that a Melbourne tenant received from an estate agent just hours before a property inspection
The text from real estate agent Nelson Alexander stated that the rental price had increased from $600 per week to $650 per week due to 'overwhelming demand' (photo: people queuing to view a rental property)
Nelson Alexander specializes in properties in Melbourne's north and was founded in 1971.
“Nelson Alexander is unlike many other real estate companies in Australia and this gives us our competitive advantage and ensures we can continue to deliver exceptional levels of service and results to our clients,” the website says.
A housing shortage in Melbourne's popular suburbs has led to a dramatic increase in rental prices, with more people competing for limited accommodation.
A screenshot of the text was shared online, with social media users saying they were shocked by the estate agency's decision to increase the advertised price.
“It's hard enough for tenants without this happening,” one said.
“What an absolute shame,” wrote another.
Several others compared the price change to “rental bids” and called it “illegal.”
However, not everyone was offended by the agent's choice; one commenter wrote: 'Hotels increase their prices when demand is high.'
Nelson Alexander also commented under the post, thanking Ms Felgate'for bringing this to our attention'.
“We immediately withdrew the property to understand what happened,” the spokesperson said.
“Nelson Alexander takes great pride in the responsibility of managing as many properties as we do, and this is not consistent with our values.
“We will review what additional training is needed (on top of our current legislative training) to ensure this never happens again.”
The brokerage followed up the comment with a longer statement on Friday.
North Melbourne real estate agent Nelson Alexander (above) shared a statement on the situation on Friday
A housing shortage in Melbourne's popular suburbs has led to a dramatic increase in rental prices, with more people competing for limited accommodation (Photo: People queuing to view a rental property)
“We want to acknowledge and address concerns about an advertised rental property under our management,” the company said.
'This did not meet the standards we hold ourselves to and we sincerely apologize for any frustration this may have caused.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work on this.”
Daily Mail Australia contacted Nelson Alexander for further comment.