Assemblymember tracks source of letter urging constituents to sell homes before shelter opens

July 31, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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BENSONHURST — A realtor with a doomsday message about property values in the vicinity of a proposed homeless shelter has been pressuring residents to sell their homes, and Assemblymember William Colton plans to go after the culprit. Colton is alerting residents near the site of the proposed homeless shelter at 86th St. and 25th Ave. that a real estate agent may be trying to drum up business by scaring them into selling their homes. Colton was provided with a copy of the recent letter, which is written in both English and Chinese. The letter, which appears to have been sent out by an agent affiliated with Skylux Realty, reads, in part, “If you’re a homeowner near this site, it’s critical to consider the potential impacts on your property and financial future.”

The letter goes on to suggest that “selling your home NOW could be the most important decision for you and your family,” because of “potential decline in property values” due to “market perception, buyer hesitation and reduced demand.” Colton advises locals receiving a similar letter to photograph it, and forward it to him with details about how it was distributed, including when and where. “We must verify who is doing this, and bring the weight of the law to bear upon them,” Colton said.

The letter is referring to the above-mentioned proposed homeless shelter for single men and the longstanding community opposition to a shelter so close to schools, homes and businesses.

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