Apartment Rental Do Not Rent from this guy!

[LamardNick]

I relocated here last spring and secured an apartment through Facebook. The landlord initially seemed agreeable, requesting a one-month deposit, which I willingly provided. We formalized the transaction with a receipt, acknowledging that I had covered the rent for that month along with the deposit.

After a month, I found a more suitable living arrangement that aligned better with my work schedule. Additionally, I discovered that I was paying significantly more than the standard rate for the neighborhood. I gave a two-week notice and actively assisted in finding a new tenant by posting ads, taking pictures, and conducting apartment showings. Fortunately, we quickly found a replacement, and the room was vacant for only three days.

However, when I requested the return of my deposit, the landlord initially claimed it was entirely gone. After some discussion, he begrudgingly offered to return only half, asserting that he felt inconvenienced by the adjustment to a new housemate. He further accused me of being a privileged tourist who didn't truly have to work and live in Buenos Aires, despite the fact that I had relocated for work. When I mentioned involving AFIP (the Federal Administration of Public Revenue), he responded dismissively, telling me to go ahead with my "little threats."

It's evident that I'm not the first individual he has mistreated. I learned about similar experiences from the previous occupant of my room, who was harassed into paying an additional two weeks of rent after leaving, just to be left in peace. I know that he is not the property owner but rather a tenant who sublets the second room. Although it may be illegal within Buenos Aires's intricate tax regulations, I am uncertain about where to start addressing this issue.

Despite the unlikely prospect of recovering my deposit, I am committed to preventing others from enduring the same ordeal. Being taken advantage of is one thing, but enduring insults and ridicule, especially regarding my work ethic, fuels my determination to take action.

http://buenosaires.es.craigslist.org/roo/1998046441.html

Here's the link to the advertisement he recently posted in search of a new roommate, indicating that he is actively seeking another victim. Be cautious and avoid falling into this trap. While he initially appeared amicable, the harsh reality emerged when it came to financial matters.

After scouring through various posts on the site, it's evident that several people have found themselves in similar situations, and my sympathies go out to all of us. My plan is to visit AFIP promptly on Monday to file a report against him. Additionally, I intend to report the incident to Tourist Defense and the Tourist Police. Despite these steps, I'm open to any advice or suggestions you may have.

Wishing everyone better luck! I've since found two fantastic living situations, demonstrating that there are indeed excellent places available. It's unfortunate that one bad experience can cast a shadow over an entire city.

 

[MiltonArt]

Consider sending him a formal letter, known as "carta documento," outlining the demand for the return of your security deposit. Clearly state that, should he fail to comply, legal action will be taken against him. This formal communication can serve as evidence of your intent and may encourage him to address the matter more seriously.

 

[HarryNuts]

Consider sharing the link to the other post on this site titled 'Stay away from this.....' which details the experiences of another victim of a scamming landlord. Highlight the extensive viewership of that post (16,132 views and counting) to underscore the negative attention he will attract. Inform him of the repercussions he will face, including being blacklisted in the expat community, flagged on Craigslist, attracting scrutiny from tax authorities, and being limited to renting to locals. Emphasize that his reputation will precede him, deterring potential tenants before they even arrive in Buenos Aires.

 

[earlyretirement]

How horrible that local owners continue cheating locals. You should post the full details on a mainstream board like Trip Advisor with the link of the property and the owner's name. That's the only way to get people like this from changing and not ripping off other tourists.

But always sign a written contract when you rent a property anywhere in the world...not just Buenos Aires. Make sure everything is clear and both sides understand the terms and for the security deposit have a separate inventory list that both of you sign at the check-in and check-out so you both agree what was there and wasn't there.

Post here:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g312741-i979-Buenos_Aires_Capital_Federal_District.html

 

[Mart]

I concur. The key factor here is whether you entered into a signed contract. If you did and subsequently departed before the agreed-upon term, it's likely that you waived your claim to the deposit, even if he promptly secured a new tenant.

 

[MiltonKart]

Buenos Aires boasts the highest number of short-term rental apartments per capita globally, making it a popular choice for temporary stays. While most Argentine landlords are honest, like any other place, a small percentage may engage in deceptive practices (viveza criolla). Best of luck navigating your situation.

 

[LamardNick]

i didn't sign a formal contract but have a receipt indicating the payment and deposit details. Your initial understanding with the landlord was more about your stay in Argentina rather than a specific commitment to his apartment. In your conversation, you emphasized the uncertainty of your plans and mentioned wanting to stay for at least a year, without specifying his apartment. During a heated exchange, he expressed an assumption that you would stay in his apartment for the entire duration, finding the transition to a new roommate inconvenient.

In essence, your payment seemingly covered the landlord's rent for the month after your departure, driven by his perception of an assumed commitment to his apartment. While locals have been supportive of your situation, the lack of a formal agreement might complicate legal avenues for recovering the deposit. It's noteworthy that he's subletting an apartment he already rents, potentially raising ethical concerns. Exploring informal negotiations or mediation could be a starting point before considering legal actions.

 

[MikeYoung]

In my view, it appears that you and the landlord initially operated on a foundation of trust. After a month, you provided a two-week notice, and the landlord, while not offering a full deposit return, seemed open to a resolution by offering half of it back.

Your decision to move stemmed from finding a better place, where the rent was $380 USD (a more typical rate, compared to the $1500 USD suggested in the other thread). Despite the room being vacant for just three days, a reasonable compensation might be considered for the inconvenience (perhaps covering the two weeks' notice or the three vacant days).

It's worth noting that the landlord's offer to return half of the deposit indicates a willingness to find middle ground. In situations like these, where both parties make an effort to reach a fair resolution, it often benefits everyone involved. Accepting the two-week deposit, shaking hands, and parting ways amicably might be a pragmatic approach, considering the circumstances.

 

[LamardNick]

I had hoped for a more amicable resolution, and I expressed my willingness to consider various options, including paying for the three days the room was vacant. Despite this, the situation has taken a different turn. Unfortunately, the landlord has withdrawn his initial offer to return half of the deposit and, in clear terms, stated that he intends to keep the entire deposit without any specific reason beyond his desire to do so. This abrupt change has eroded the trust I initially had in him, and it has become evident that a fair and reasonable discussion may be challenging in this circumstance.