Is there any humanity?

I am just disgusted at this article in the Herald Sun today.

"Dimity Barber

October 01, 2008 02:35pm

BUYERS trying to cash in on panicked home owners are making half-price offers to houses affected by a potentially explosive gas leak.

Real estate buyers are targeting the Brookland Greens estate in the hope of picking up a bargain in the wake of the methane gas fiasco.

But property experts are urging residents to sit tight and ride out the storm.

Cranbourne real estate agents last week said they had been receiving dozens of calls from investors and speculators in search of a steal.

Raine and Horne agent Andy White said the gas leak had killed genuine sales calls and brought the bargain hunters out of the woodwork.

“Some people think they can pay half price. Investors are looking for a bargain because of the situation,” he said.

Another estate agent, who asked to remain anonymous, said speculators were driving around the estate offering cash for houses.

“Some people seem to think this is a fire sale. We’re getting inquiries from people wanting to get a $400,000 house for $200,000. Absolute idiots,” the agent said.

Read more of the story in the Cranbourne Leader."