Rent Jacking Landlord

Just got lease renewal for studio apartment in Ciampa's Cara Terrace building on 118 Street in Kew Gardens, Queens. So, my rent now is $1450.00/ month. New rent offered by Ciampa...$ 3000.00 106% increase. I know, you won't believe it, so here it is, the picture. I am just curious what are the basis for this retaliatory action, cause it clearly is out of wack. After I requested review and... [more]

Just got lease renewal for studio apartment in Ciampa's Cara Terrace building on 118 Street in Kew Gardens, Queens. So, my rent now is $1450.00/ month. New rent offered by Ciampa...$ 3000.00 106% increase. I know, you won't believe it, so here it is, the picture. I am just curious what are the basis for this retaliatory action, cause it clearly is out of wack. After I requested review and re-consideration of the new proposed lease, Ciampa explained to me in a letter, that actually $ 3000.00 for a studio is "relative to the market condition". Is it? No, they advertise studios in the same building for $ 1600.00 a month and 2BR for $ 2400.00. It is just me they seem to have a problem with. Now as for you, the potential tenant, just ask yourself if you really want to deal with nonsense like this. [less]