Interesting Anti-Landlord Ordinance Approved in Seattle

[Ana Marie B.]

Curious what others think of this new pro-renter ordinance approved in Seattle.  Would this make you think twice before investing in Seattle RE?

In a nutshell, this ordinance aims to ban "discrimination by landlords against renters with alternative sources of income, such as Social Security benefits, veteran’s benefits, unemployment insurance, child-support payments and other assistance programs. The ordinance also will require landlords to review applications one at a time, then pick the first renter who meets their screening criteria."

Here's the link:

http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/...

[Jennifer T.]

I don't have properties in that area.  But, IMO, the only two issues I have with the ordinance are 1) not being able to select the best tenant and 2) unemployment as a form of income.

Unemployment as a form of income is RIDICULOUS.  In most areas UE is 6 months, at the longest.  And that is 6 months if they are applying for an apartment right at the beginning of their UE.  What if there is only 1 month left anyway?  Come on. 

Do you know who also has to follow anti-discrimination laws?  Companies, for hiring and promotions.  Is there also a law in Seattle that companies need to hire the FIRST candidate with all of their requirements, instead of looking for the best qualified candidate?  I'm guessing the answer is a giant no.  So why would that same idea be different for LLs?  It shouldn't.  Also completely ridiculous.