Not to mention owners might improve their property between tenants. It's only fair that owners recoup their expenses. This isn't communism. We're in this for profit.

Now, should you "gouge" someone and take unfair advantage because of their shitty situation? No. That's being a dick.

The keyword here is "unfair" advantage. Charging high market rates for high quality property is just taking advantage of the market.

It's like sports. Use whatever "fair" advantage you can to exceed, excel, and succeed. Leave the unfair advantages for the cheaters and dopers.