The prospective tenant from California had perfect credit, excellent references and more than enough income for the New Haven apartment.
But as one of almost 30 applicants for the $2,400-a-month one-bedroom in the city’s hot East Rock neighborhood, the Californian didn’t stand a chance. The apartment went to someone else.
“It’s crazy,” said Gena Ruocco-Lockery, broker/owner of GRL and Realtors at 520 Chapel St. “Anywhere in New Haven is just difficult. Inventory is still low and there are many applicants applying. You have to be the cream of the crop to get chosen.”