Some former residents of the fire-ravaged Wang Fuk Court have begun searching for long-term rental flats in the area, but many, particularly older tenants, are finding the process difficult. Following the deadly blaze in Tai Po in November, the government offered affected homeowners an annual subsidy of HK$150,000 over the next two years. But some elderly residents – who’re currently living in transitional housing – say their search is being hampered by landlords reluctant to rent their flats out to older people. Pin jeh, who’s in her seventies, lives with her octogenarian husband who has mobility issues. They have been staying at the “Good House” transitional housing for nearly a month. Pin jeh says though they have what they need there, the relatively remote location makes hospital visits inconvenient. She’s being helped by a dedicated social worker, who is helping her look for a rental flat in Tai Po. However, they’ve had no luck so far. “I’ve looked at many properties, and a lot of landlords ask if it is two elderly people renting,” she said. “They believe the elderly people aren’t as healthy as young people. Some landlords think it's a hassle to rent out flats to us in case something happens,” she lamented. Pin jeh added that rising rents have added to her worries. “It started at HK$12,000, then went to HK$13,000, HK$14,000, even HK$15,000. Some are even asking for HK$20,000.” A month after the tragedy, Pin jeh is hoping that authorities will soon announce a long-term resettlement plan. “We hope the government will give us answers soon, whether it’s resettlement in the original area or what comes next. We need new hope to be able to move on,” she said. Some real estate agents are trying to help people like Pin jeh find a new home. One agent surnamed Wong is offering commission-free assistance to Wang Fuk Court residents. He says it’s not easy to find an affordable flat, with limited supplies driving up prices. “Currently, rents are generally up by five to 10 percent. A two-bedroom unit of about 300 square feet starts from around HK$13,000 to HK$14,000,” he said. “With the year-end approaching, fewer people are moving, leading to a significant shortage of rental properties.” Wong has so far helped three families secure a rental.