‘Selling Sunset’ Star Jason Oppenheim Addresses Rent Increases Amid L.A. Wildfires
Jason Oppenheim, a star on "Selling Sunset," highlighted that landlords in Los Angeles are allegedly raising rents unlawfully amid the wildfire crisis.
During an interview with BBC One on January 12, Oppenheim recounted a recent incident involving a client seeking a rental. A property that had initially listed for $13,000 per month suddenly jumped to $23,000 when the client approached the landlord. Oppenheim criticized this practice, saying, "Price gouging laws in California are being ignored right now. This isn’t the time to take advantage of easy choices."
The real estate mogul and co-owner of The Oppenheim Group shared that the wildfires have devastated many local residents following their onset on January 7, after a windstorm. "Everyone has tears in their eyes daily, literally from the smoke. It’s emotional to witness these struggles," he shared.
Oppenheim's comments aligned with warnings from state authorities against increasing prices beyond a 10% threshold post-wildfire.
Moreover, Oppenheim announced on January 9 that his company would assist those displaced by the fires. In an Instagram post, he stated, "If you’ve lost your home in Los Angeles and need a rental until yours is rebuilt, all Oppenheim Group agents will help you for free. We will credit back any commission." He encouraged residents to contact his office for assistance.
In a subsequent video, Oppenheim expanded on this initiative. "This morning, I received messages from friends and clients who lost their homes and urgently need rentals. Their families are displaced," he explained, while acknowledging the challenge posed by high demand and limited housing options.
Various colleagues in his firm echoed Oppenheim’s commitment to support displaced residents. Alexandra Jarvis, along with others like Mary Fitzgerald Bonnet and Chrishell Stause, expressed readiness to assist.
As of the latest reports, the Associated Press noted that the L.A. wildfires have tragically led to 24 fatalities. Additionally, 16 people remain unaccounted for, and authorities expect that figure to increase.
Earlier, SSP wrote that Meghan Markle delayed Netflix series amid wildfires in Los Angeles.