Why are rentals in US dollars?

I address this letter openly to all Landlords and Real Estate Agents so that we, the renters — those of us who cannot afford to purchase house and land, or who simply do not qualify for a mortgage — can get a better insight into why this is happening? Yes, we are all aware that not but a few years ago Trinidad was inundated with ‘expats’ willing to pay hefty sums for small, “bare-bones” apartments. But why?

Tell me why, must these places be quoted in US dollars? Who is working for US dollars in Trinidad? This situation is getting out of hand! The newlywed couples, the single professional can no longer afford to live in safe environments, not to mention the students — heaven help them! We simply cannot afford it! Websites that list all of the realtors of Trinidad and Tobago list townhouses in less than popular areas for 3000USD, 6000USD? Who is able to pay 18,000TTD and 36,000TTD? Please tell me! It is about time that something is done about this, or else we will all be out on the streets. I wrote one agency who brazenly replied that in Diego Martin 1-2 bedroom apartment will run me anything from $2000USD to $5000USD! This is craziness! Please, I urge you, respond to my letter and inform the renting public of why this continues to be this way.

Gertrude Brown

via e-mail