Priced Out: Life on the Edge of Regeneration

Landlord: So, you see, the thing is, I do feel like I've been good to you. I know you had that trouble, you know. I gave you leeway when you were late with the rent. Twice, during Covid. I haven't done that with any of my other tenants. You do know I have lots of tenants, don't you?  Mmmm. So, I'm here to discuss... No, I have noted the window. Landlord’s thoughts: Not the window again.  Landlord: Yes, you've said the frame is rotten. And yes, I have noted about the damp patch. Landlord’s thoughts: Not the damp as well...  Landlord: But I do think that could be solved by opening the window. Damp is usually caused by the tenant's lifestyle. Drying clothes, cooking, breathing, you know. Oh, you can't open the window because it's broken.  Landlord’s thoughts: Always banging on about that window.  Landlord: Well, did you break it? Breakages are usually caused by the tenant. Oh, right, it was noted on the inventory when you moved in in 2014. Right, well, the reason why I'm here is I've been good to you. And now, well, it's nothing personal, but I'm here to let you know it's time to go. I'm going to give you notice to leave.  Landlord’s thoughts: I can refurbish the property and get twice the rent. Get twice the rent off a young professional couple. Rich, a rich couple. Oh, yes.  ​ Landlord: Don’t worry, I'll put it all in writing. It's business, you understand, nothing personal. Landlord’s thoughts: Or I can sell it. House prices are through the roof. It's a great opportunity for me to make some more money.  Landlord: Yes, you do have to leave. Don't worry, you'll have a full month's notice, very generous. Landlord’s thoughts: She won't know she's legally entitled to two months.  Landlord: Well, yes, I know you've been here for nearly ten years.  Don't cry. Landlord’s thoughts: Here we go with the waterworks. I wonder what I should have for supper this evening. I think I have an egg in the fridge. Landlord: I’ll put it all in writing. I'll give you an excellent reference. I'm sure you understand. It's business.  ​ Landlord’s Song: When I was young  I dreamed of one house, just the one  One property, just the one  Those days are gone  I invested in one  Rented it out, bought another one  And then another and another one It became such fun  All by myself  A housing empire  All by myself  I bought more and more  All by myself  It's out of hand  All by myself I bought more and more and more and more and more  And more!  You have one month's notice. Thank you.