Housing Quote by Matthew Desmond
““For many landlords, it was cheaper to deal with the expense of eviction than to maintain their properties; it was possible to skimp on maintenance if tenants were perpetually behind; and many poor tenants would be perpetually behind because their rent was too high. Tenants””
About This Quote
Source Book: Evicted by Matthew Desmond, 2016
Landlords may find eviction cheaper than proper maintenance, leading to a cycle of neglect and unaffordable rent for tenants.
In simple terms: Landlords sometimes choose eviction over fixing properties, hurting tenants.
Key Takeaway
Address rent affordability and maintenance standards.
Themes
housing
economics
power dynamics
Mood
concerned
analytical
Type
policy
educational
When to use this quote
- rental negotiations
- policy reform
- tenant advocacy
- landlord training
Key Concepts
social justice
urban policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can policy reduce eviction incentives?
- What responsibilities do landlords have to tenants?
A Different Perspective
Legal costs and market pressures can limit options for both parties.
