Renting for DNC not as easy as creating a listing

Some people who own condos in the Queen City have the potential to make thousands this fall as Democratic National Convention enthusiasts look for a place to stay.

However, their neighbors could be evicted for trying to do the same thing.

“I don’t think that many people are going to pay $10,000 for a week,” said Robert Kropp, an uptown Charlotte renter.

Kropp lives in the Catalyst building, a 27-story high rise. He wanted to sublease the apartment he and his wife rent during the Democratic National Convention to make some quick cash.

But he is one of many people in uptown Charlotte who cannot rent their spaces.

“They can’t sublet unless they have the exclusive permission from their landlord, housing manager or owner of whatever it is,” said Ken Szymanski with the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association.

According to Szymanski, subletting is a safety concern because many landlords perform background checks before a tenant is approved to rent an apartment, house or condo.

“But to have someone else come in without the landlord’s screening or approval could potentially jeopardize that property and other residents,” he said.

On the other hand, for people who own their condos, it’s a different situation.

HM Properties sent out a letter last week asking condo owners at The Metropolitan if they would be interested in renting their condo for a few days. The letter states owners have the potential to make up to $2,000 per bedroom.

The group said it will draw up the contract and the homeowner only needs to provide clean sheets and towels, closet space and a refrigerator.

They are currently looking for space for corporate clients, celebrities and lobbyists from Washington.

Ken Szymanski says anyone interested in subletting their home for the DNC should contact their landlord first.

For condo owners who want to see HM Properties’ information on subletting, click here.