Family of San Francisco landlord accused of murdering tenant is trying to rent the 'bright and inviting' home for twice the price

But what if a disgruntled tenant is unable to share their story because, God forbid, they were murdered? Even worse, it was in a crime that took place on the property you’re considering, and, if you can believe it, was allegedly perpetrated by the landlord in question?

It may sound like the plot of a horror movie, but it’s the reality for anyone looking at one particular house that recently hit the market in San Francisco.

‘Bright and inviting’ crime scene

The newly updated three-bedroom, two-bathroom unit in the Outer Sunset neighborhood is just steps away from the beach, and shows well in digitally staged photos. It’s described as “bright and inviting” in the listing, with special features that include “abundant natural light,” “beautiful hardwood floors” and “comfortable indoor living.”

What the listing doesn’t mention is the fact that, as local news station ABC7 has reported, the most recent occupant of the unit was shot in the front yard in May. The 58-year-old, whose car had also been set alight, eventually succumbed to his injuries, and the landlord is now on trial for the alleged crimes.

What’s even more sickening is the purported motive of the crime: that the landlord was trying to rid himself of the tenant so he could sell the home, according to the victim’s son.

With these accusations in mind, the property isn’t allowed to change hands while the case is in the courts. But the place, still in possession of the alleged perpetrator’s family, has appeared to make its way onto rental platforms, including Zillow, where it’s listed for $6,300 per month — almost double the $3,200 that the victim was paying for the place before his death.

As per California law, despite the cheery rental ad, all prospective tenants are being informed of the incident, the broker for the property told ABC7News.

Death disclosure legislation varies state to state

While California requires landlords to disclose if an occupant died on the premises within the previous three years (and the manner of that death), most U.S. states do not. In Georgia, for example, landlords must release this information only if asked, and do not have to do so voluntarily. In other areas, there are no regulations compelling a property owner to divulge.

This can change if the death was a result of conditions of the property, such as in Texas, where natural passings and suicides do not need to be communicated if they took place in a unit, but a death from someone, say, falling off a shoddy balcony must be disclosed. Some states also mandate owners reveal any “material facts” that could realistically impact the value of the property, which can include a death.

Would-be buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords should ensure they look up the rules in their own jurisdiction before listing or looking at a home.