Railing against the excesses of real estate agencies
Estate agents again under fire from critics. The consumer association UFC – Que Choisir has issued a statement on Tuesday vitriolic, denouncing the "little commendable practices" agencies. After a survey of over a thousand branches, the leading association of abuse "at every level," the tenants are the first victims.
Three types of abuses are highlighted by the association. Estate agents do not initially comply with their disclosure obligations of tenants illegally. For example, 21% of agencies tested their fees do not display in the window, "contrary to a legal obligation 20 years old." Like nearly a third still do not respect the obligation to inform the tenant of the energy consumption of their future home, even as energy prices continue to climb.
Prices "prohibitive"
Partly because of tensions on the rental market, real estate will also allow aspiring tenants require more and more collateral. 62% of them are demanding documents allowed for the creation of a file, the certificate of the employer being required more frequently (by 46% of agencies). "This is not an excess of zeal, defends the National Federation of Real Estate (Fnaim). This is only to ensure donors'.
By virtue of this requirement that many agencies require such an identity photograph, a bank account, a check for reservation of accommodation or a social security card … In about 30% of cases, a guarantor is required when the candidate wins the rent three times the rent."This additional requirement makes it clear that agencies are primarily to serve the landlord," interprets the UFC – Que Choisir.
Last black dot underlined by the association: the profession continues to charge a "service only limited" at prices for their "prohibitive". On average, fees and represent 93% of the monthly rent. The UFC – Que Choisir denounced as such "double penalty" is that the indexation of fees on the rent: the more prices rise, more agencies are increasing fees. Only 6% of agencies practice a fixed fee, delivery.
New measures for consumers
All these abuses have repeatedly pointed out by consumer groups, which tend to hinder access to housing.In March, it was this time CLCV denouncing the excessive billing that affect the budget of the tenants: inventory costs (up to 100 euros), fresh stimulus for delay (20 euros on average ) fee for annual reassessment of rental charges (34 euros) … So many illegal practices which continue to proliferate, despite the tightening of the law.
If the profession is a strong advocate of abuse, Fnaim however, that it will present in September new measures "in favor of an overall organization of the profession, faithful to respect the interests of consumers."
The Secretary of State for Housing, Benedict Appeared should follow suit."It is important not to heap opprobrium on a profession that is aware of certain abuses, organized thinking to fight against," he said Tuesday, before announcing that new government measures against the abuses described as "unbearable". Currently "under development", these measures will aim to "protect consumers and support those professionals who are committed to the quality of service." For these traditional signs of strong competition from low cost agencies in full swing, this strategy could indeed be a winner.
Testimonials – Have you ever been abused by estate agents? Have you seen such abuses around you? Tell us your experience in comments below or by email at temoin@lefigaro.fr.
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