'Out on the street:' Seniors being forced out as rent at affordable community sky rockets

Dozens of people living in a senior living community in Rolesville may soon have no place to call home.

The Grande at Granite Falls was touted as affordable housing for ages 62 and up. Renters had to make less than $37,000 a year to qualify.

But seniors who spoke to WRAL News this week say they got sticker shock from seeing their new rental rates.

"The seniors are afraid they'll be out on the street," said 70-year-old Maria Alvarez, who has lived in the affordable housing community since 2016.

Most of the seniors are on a fixed income, making less than $40,000 a year.

Back in 2016, Alvarez recalls her rent being closer to $740 a month. It had gone up slightly over the years, she says – until she got a notice last month. Her rent was being increased to $1,918 a month.

She was told to pay the new rental rate – or leave by Dec. 13.

She tried talking to the property manager, but got no phone calls back. Then, she got a notice saying she was in violation and a notice to vacate.

"I almost lost it," she said.

Now, she's trying to hire an attorney to fight the $1,000 a month increase in cost, as she was told rental rates would never exceed $1,447.

Many of the seniors who live here are afraid of becoming homeless.

"If I can't find a place, I will be in my car," said 70-year-old Philomenia Inzeo, tearfully. "As a senior I thought I would be safe here."

Her rent was raised jumped from $918 to $1,447. On a fixed income, she can't afford to pay it.

Now, she says she's constantly crying.

The women say about 7 seniors moved out in the last few weeks – unable to pay, forced out.

Around 75 residents live in the community.

WRAL News tried to ask questions, but got no answers. WRAL News also tried to call and email the property managment group, but have not heard back.