Vancouver realtor faces threats over Yaletown billboard

A billboard displaying the words “Making Yaletown Unaffordable since 2005” has resulted in a Vancouver realtor facing threats online.

Ian Watt with Heller Murch Realty is behind the billboard that popped up outside Rogers Arena.

The words have left a bad taste with users on social media, who claim the billboard is insensitive and makes fun of people who can’t afford to live in the area.

In an email, Watt tells 1130 NewsRadio the sign’s message is meant to be ironic. He says since the billboard went up, he has had to turn off comments on his Instagram posts because of threats.

“The reality is the government is to blame for allowing real estate to be traded like a stock for so many years instead of it being reserved as a place to reside,” he said.

“Now because of the government’s inaction, it’s become unaffordable for young people who don’t have the bank of mom and dad behind them.”

Watt says he believes people should focus their energy on the real problem and not the guy who pointed out the problem.

“I was being honest about the economic landscape in Yaletown for young people,” he said.