Habitat for Humanity sold affordable units in New Orleans to a for-profit company, triggering rent hikes up to 300% and sparking backlash over transparency and displacement risks.

New Orleans’ Musicians’ Village residents are facing rent hikes of up to 300% after Habitat for Humanity sold eight rental units to for-profit Stable Housing LLC, with new rates jumping from $300–$400 to $1,100–$1,200 starting January 1. The sale, part of Habitat’s effort to exit rental management due to financial strain, drew community outcry over lack of tenant notification, no right of first refusal, and no written rent protections beyond a one-year promise. Council members and advocates criticized the deal’s transparency and potential for displacement, especially for elderly and cultural residents. Though no evictions are planned and some tenants may receive adjusted Section 8 vouchers, many remain anxious about long-term affordability.