Tenant Spotlight

Shavonia E.

June 2025

Shavonia is a member of BRU who learned about BRU through searching for support as she was battling her landlord in her rent escrow case. Shavonia enjoys gaming, knitting, arts and crafts.Shavonia is also a mom to two kids and this is her story.   

I’m currently renting from Triangle Property Management which was previously under Pangea Real Estate as of May of 2024. When Triangle Property Management purchased the building I received a call from Daniel who identified himself as financial manager of the property that I needed to leave my home in two weeks in exchange for a cash payout. I panicked because I wasn’t told why I would need to leave and I couldn't possibly pick up and move with such short notice. Daniel shortly reached back out to me with an offer for me to move into another unit which I currently live in now.

I agreed to view that apartment which the rent was $1100, being far out of my price range but I needed a place to go with my babies and cats. Some time rolled around and it was the day to view the apartment but I couldn't afford a ride so I did a video call to view the apartment (which turned out to be a big mistake) In the video he showed the first room, living, kitchen, and the bathroom located by the kitchen. In the bathroom we saw a wet dry vac which Joe, who identified himself as a leasing agent had said “there were some backflow problems and would be fixed by the time we moved in.” He also stated that everything is brand new and we will have air condition units due to no central air when we move in.

As I was preparing to sign the lease to the new place I was given a key return form to sign stating that I’m voluntarily moving out. I was so confused and questioned why am I being asked to sign this because I’m not willingly moving out and the response was “it's just a precaution” reluctant I still signed the lease because I had no other options. I attempted to ask again but he dismissed me and moved the conversation along.

When I opened the door to my new unit I smelled bug spray and dust/dirt was all over the floor. I also noticed that the fridge didn’t work and because of this I was out almost $300 worth of food. I then went downstairs to find roaches all over the floor and lots of dust, with no AC anywhere in sight. I texted Daniel about it with little to no response. When they finally reached out and checked the fridge,  I was told there was a part that was broken and was told I'd get a new fridge. Throughout my time trying to settle in my “new” place I discovered that the dryer wasn’t working and we had no hot water. Then my washing machine went up on me. In addition, I have been dealing with mold, sewer back up, rat infestation and pipes bursting. I found out about Baltimore Renters United during my rent escrow case as the process caused me a great deal of stress. I was able to connect with Baltimore Renters United to learn more about my rights.

I believe tenants should organize because together we can get things done [...] We need to focus more on supporting each other. “

BRU stands in solidarity with all tenants struggling to find stable housing in Baltimore and fighting to end an unjust system. We believe housing is a fundamental human right that is deserved by everyone regardless of income, identifying traits, ability, or criminal background and eviction history. For these reasons we will continue to advocate for rent stabilization and fair housing. To learn more about our efforts visit our resources and know your rights pages.   

Shavonia is currently facing an urgent housing situation. Her landlord has recently raised the rent, making it unaffordable for me to remain in my  home. I’m a  single mother with two children and is seeking a new place to live by the end of June 2025. Her  budget is $900-$1000 per month that she can afford in rent. She is seeking a place for herself and her two kids.  If anyone hears of anything or knows any place please reach out to Shavonia via Tiktok at:https://www.tiktok.com/@momwithgiggleszforlife

Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author represent the author's individual views and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Baltimore Renters United.