In a unique Facebook advertisement, a Sydney landlord has listed an enclosed balcony with a bed for rent at $969 a month.
The listing on Facebook Marketplace describes the Haymarket balcony as a “sunny room” suitable for one person. The images, which have also spread across other social media platforms, feature the balcony equipped with a single bed, a mirror, blinds, and a rug on tiled flooring.
Glass sliding doors link the balcony to the main property, and a full-length mirror reflects another glass wall. The landlord highlights that the space is immediately available for move-in, with the rent “including bills.”
This balcony is part of a two-bedroom apartment, which is also on the market for $1300 a week, bills not included. The ad specifies sharing a bathroom with just one other person and praises the location’s convenience.
The listing has amused many internet users, drawing humorous reactions. Comments ranged from “That’s an amazing view” to “Good luck with that! You are crazy,” and “well it gets great light.”
Amidst this, Sydney continues to experience a sharp rise in rental prices, driven by high demand and scant supply. According to a recent report by Domain, as cited by 9News.com, Sydney’s median rent reached a record $750 a week in the June 2024 quarter.
Contributing factors include low interest rates, economic recovery, and population growth, pushing rental prices upward. This surge has sparked concerns over housing affordability, especially affecting low- to middle-income families, many of whom face increased financial strain and housing instability.
In competitive markets, bidding wars are common, with potential tenants offering more than the listed price to secure accommodations. This trend exacerbates the challenges for those on tighter budgets in securing affordable housing.
