Philly Rental Market Shifts: One-Third of Listings Offer Concessions Amid Slower Fall Season
In October 2024, one-third of rental listings in the Philadelphia area offered concessions like free rent or parking deals, as an influx of new apartments and lower competition gave renters more negotiating power in a slower-than-usual market.
Did you miss it? Catch up on the key takeaways from Sheriff Rochelle Bilal's November 13th webinar with HAPCO!
Look out for an upcoming article in our newsletter and video content. In the meantime, check out the key takeaways from the webinar below!
- Eviction Integrity Unit: Sheriff Bilal announced the creation of a new unit focused on evictions and ejectments, with plans to hire 20 additional staff as soon as funding allows.
- Streamlined Processes & Technology: New technology and improved workflows are reducing paperwork, giving deputies more time to be out in the field and less time tied to administrative tasks.
- Impact of LTO Closure: Since the Landlord Tenant Office (LTO) closed in September, the Sheriff's Office has taken on eviction responsibilities, managing about 20 evictions per day, about two-thirds of the previous LTO workload.
- Training & Recruitment Challenges: The Sheriff discussed challenges with deputy recruitment, citing the 19-week training program and efforts to bring training closer to home to attract more candidates.
- Advocacy for Change: Sheriff Bilal urged Hapco members to lobby city and state lawmakers for changes to laws affecting landlords, and provided a direct contact for members to address specific concerns with her office: Inspector, David Fallen, at David.Fallen@phila.gov
New Changes Streamline Access to Utility Assistance in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvanians applying for LIHEAP can now streamline access to multiple utility assistance programs by opting to share their information with participating gas and electric utilities, reducing duplicate applications and helping low-income households connect with resources more easily.
Critics Demand Overhaul of Philly’s Land Bank for Faster, Fairer Property Access
Critics are calling for quick changes to Philadelphia’s Land Bank, saying its slow and unclear processes hold back affordable housing and community growth. City officials are now planning new ways to improve it.
Sixers Arena Development Update: Plans Shift with New Housing Proposals Nearby
The Sixers’ arena project in Market East no longer includes a high-rise apartment tower due to Chinatown community concerns. Instead, affordable housing may be developed at the old 6th District police station, though the $1.55 billion arena still faces local opposition despite support from the mayor.
PROA October Bill Track Report: Key Legislative Updates
Discover the Latest Updates in the Proa September Bill Track Report!