Editor's Note: 'Our Colorado' stories help natives and newcomers navigate the challenges related to our rapidly growing state, including real estate and development, homelessness, transportation and more. To comment on this or other 'Our Colorado' stories, email us at OurCO@TheDenverChannel.com. See more 'Our Colorado' stories here.
GOLDEN, Colo. -- When Tonya Lowery moved into her townhome a year ago she planned on staying to giver her 7-year-old son some stability. Then she got a letter about renewing the lease — she was floored. Her rent would be going up by $268 per month.
"I just could not believe that they were raising it that much," said Lowery.
She is currently paying $2,300 per month in rent for the three-bedroom home that she shares with her son and mother. She was expecting a rent increase but not more than $200.
Her lease is up in one month, and she can't afford the increase. She also fears she won't have the money to move and come up with the deposit plus first month's rent.
"I mean I did think about just not saying anything and then I'm like no this is not right, and I know there are other people out there," said Lowery.
Lowery tried to negotiate with Altitude Apartments, but she was not successful. Denver7 also reached out to the management company, Pinnacle, and the company provided a statement saying the increase is related to continued growth in the area.
"Ms. Lowery is currently in a beautiful, three bedroom townhome on property, and is a valued resident of our community. In order maintain our unparalleled facilities and provide residents a fantastic place to call home, rent is sometimes increased in conjunction with continued growth in the area when renewing a lease agreement.
In addition to the three bedroom townhome, there are several other tremendous options available for Ms. Lowery in our community, and we sincerely hope she and her son will continue to stay with us at Altitude Apartments.”