Tarek El Moussa is facing backlash for his involvement in a $50 million condo development project in Los Angeles, called NoHo 138. It was revealed that the previous property owner used unsafe tactics to force tenants to vacate the land. Tarek denied any illegal actions and stated that the project will provide jobs, boost tax revenue, and create a new community.
Tarek El Moussa and his wife Heather Rae El Moussa are facing backlash for allegedly evicting tenants from their rent-controlled units in L.A.’s North Hollywood neighborhood to make way for a $50 million luxury condo development called NoHo 138, although Tarek has denied any wrongdoing and stated that their intentions are to do good and improve the neighborhood.
Title: Tarek El Moussa Faces Controversy Over New Condo Project in Los Angeles
Introduction:
Popular HGTV star Tarek El Moussa, known for his work on Flip or Flop, and his wife Heather Rae El Moussa have found themselves embroiled in controversy surrounding their latest condo development project in Los Angeles. The couple’s investment companies, TEM Capital and HEM Capital, are involved in the $50 million development called NoHo 138. While the project holds promise, it has faced backlash due to allegations of tenant evictions and misconduct by the previous property owner, Arthur Aslanian.
Details of the Project:
Tarek’s team announced in April 2023 that they would be developing a luxury condo complex in North Hollywood, boasting 138 units. The project, set to include amenities such as a gym, rooftop deck, community pool, and spacious balconies, generated buzz among fans and followers. Tarek clarified that the location was acquired “off market,” and the project would be their biggest flip yet.
Construction Timeline and Unit Breakdown:
According to the project’s website, construction is slated to start in 2024 and complete in 2026. The luxury complex will consist of 138 units, with 14 of them designated as low-income units. While the development appeared promising, it soon faced controversy due to the actions of the previous property owner.
Controversy Surrounding the Development:
Reports surfaced that Arthur Aslanian, the previous owner, had allegedly resorted to unsafe tactics to force tenants out of their units. He was convicted in federal court for hiring someone to set fire to vacant units on the site, which formed part of a long-standing illegal harassment campaign. Five tenants who remained on the premises accused Tarek, Heather, and their investment firms of evicting them from their rent-controlled units.
Tarek’s Response and Future Plans:
In response to the allegations, Tarek took to social media to deny any wrongdoing and stated that notices to tenants were served by the current owner and not his team. He emphasized that they had followed all of Los Angeles’ rules and regulations regarding eviction and relocation. Tarek’s team expressed their intention to work with the remaining tenants to create a beneficial move-out agreement and highlighted the job opportunities and positive impact the project would have on the community.
Tenant Reactions:
Tenants shared their concerns and frustrations over the potential eviction. Many had called the Hartsook Street bungalows their home for decades and expressed reluctance to leave due to rising rental prices elsewhere. The tenants felt that Tarek’s enthusiastic promotion of the project, even showcasing the arson damage, was insensitive and disrespectful to their plight.
Legal Considerations:
Under the California Ellis Act, landlords have the right to evict tenants legally. Tarek’s team assured the public that the entire relocation process would adhere to the law through the Los Angeles Housing Department and a legal relocation advisor. Monetary compensation would also be offered to tenants who choose to leave their homes early.
Conclusion:
Tarek El Moussa and his wife Heather Rae El Moussa’s latest condo project has faced significant backlash due to allegations of tenant evictions and misconduct by the previous property owner. While Tarek maintains their innocence and commitment to following legal guidelines, the controversy surrounding the development highlights the challenges and ethical considerations in real estate ventures. As the project progresses, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether further resolutions can be reached between all parties involved.
