The photographer traveled around the country, shooting the communities we live in, unvarnished and unfiltered.
These days, real estate imagery is often defined by staged hotel-lobby-style furniture and generic artwork, dramatic drone shots on unsettlingly perfect sunny days and a lack of human presence — almost never do you see any people or evidence that these homes have been lived in.
Lee Friedlander’s new photo book, “Real Estate,” published by Eakins Press Foundation, runs counter to all that. Spanning over 60 years of work with 155 photos, the collection takes viewers on journeys from Alaska to Arizona to New York and more, often viewed from the driver’s seat of Mr. Friedlander’s car. There are images of houses and apartments, sure, but there are also images of life and death, construction and destruction. One image shows a billboard advertising, “We buy ugly houses.” The collection is a much-needed reminder that everyday-ness, ugliness and the world as it is — without any manicuring or staging — is worth admiring.
Dallas, Texas, 2003Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
“In a Friedlander picture, the houses have personalities. The buildings look like they’ve been caught in the act of doing something embarrassing,” wrote Peter Kayafas, the director of Eakins Press Foundation, in the afterword. As opposed to much other real estate photography, which is “fraught with layers of subjectivity passed off as impartiality: think of the fisheye lens that stretches the space of an otherwise punishingly cramped NYC apartment,” Mr. Kayafas wrote.
Throughout his career, Mr. Friedlander has made around 70 photo books and became known for capturing what many curators, artists and writers would refer to as the American “social landscape” through everyday people, places and things, traversing urban, suburban and rural environments. “If the world was made of ice cream, I have a spoon,” said Mr. Friedlander, 89.
In response to questions sent by email, Mr. Friedlander responded in a voice recording and reflected on his photography and American real estate. This interview has been edited and condensed.
Today, images made for social media or on real estate listing websites are often clinically and unrealistically perfect. But with your work, I loved seeing the overgrown trees, the unkempt lawns, the shadows, the crooked decorations. You see places as they are inhabited. How has the idea of capturing this kind of rawness informed your work? What does it mean to you?
I’m a garbage collector. The more stuff in the picture, the better. Wouldn’t you say so? In a sense, it’s more fun to add more stuff if you can, and still make the picture. Second of all, in terms of what I’m doing, I mean, I’m not selling these houses. I’m just walking by them. So I’m kind of interested in what’s going on besides the house itself. Maybe I’m not even interested in real estate. Maybe it’s the perfect garbage can for the moment.
Throughout the book, fences are among a few of the objects that you see over and over again. How do you view fences in conjunction with real estate, and how do you think they shape space?
Los Angeles, California, 2002Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
New York City, 1995Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
I love chain-link. They’re just there. They cover half the picture, each one. The difference between the chain-link and the other fences, you know, is you can see through the chain-link. So you’re not discouraging what’s beyond it.
You see this idea of architectural sameness in many of the photos, where entire streets or developments of homes all look alike, sometimes startlingly so. What do you make of this?
New York State, 1964Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
They’re not very inventive. If you look at things being built, some guy buys a big piece of land, and he puts the same house on it 14 times. He didn’t have to hire another architect.
Looking back at these photographs, what aspects of the American landscape do you feel have stayed the same over time? What’s notably different?
I’m not smart enough to answer that.
Walk me through a few of the photographs. What’s the story behind this image?
Minneapolis, Minnesota, 1966Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
I was driving along, and they were burning down the house. It was urban renewal. So they gave them the house to burn down, and then they all stood in front of it. You know, I’m a photographer for Christ’s sakes.
What do you remember about this one?
New York City, 2010Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
I spent a 100th of a second there. The camera knew.
Were you driving when you took this photo?
Western United States, 1975Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
Oh, yeah. I don’t even know where it is. We had a friend who actually did that — he bought a lot, he bought a house, they drove it in. And two days later, it was livable.
Canyou tell me about the very last photo in the book?
Fort Lee, New Jersey, 1976Lee Friedlander, via Eakins Press Foundation, Fraenkel Gallery, and Luhring Augustine Gallery
That’s my mother-in-law’s underwear. She lived in Fort Lee. It’s also funny.
Is there a photograph you wish you took, but didn’t, that still haunts you? Can you tell me about that moment? (At this point, Maria Friedlander, Mr. Friedlander’s wife interjected, “What about some of the license plate ones?”)
Oh, “QTPIE,” yes. I followed her. ’Cause she was great. It was Las Vegas, and her license plate was “QTPIE,” and she made a red light that I couldn’t. I was gonna get killed. I was gonna follow her till she stopped and then photograph her and the car. She got away.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
