Is it hoping too much that the Facebook employees will turn around and buy homes not only helping the housing market but causing rental rates to fall back to normal in the Menlo Park area? $2200+/month for a mediocre 2 BR apartment is insane! Greedy management companies who force out good tenants for temporary residents are penny wise and pound foolish.

No, it's not hoping too much! But don't hold your breath - Menlo's always been an expensive place to rent. I know FB employees who are renters & I'm sure they're poised to buy, if possible (I don't ask how well compensated they are). For some, it may mean owning a condo in San Mateo vs. a manse in Atherton, but it's still ownership (supposedly, not factoring the bank's role).

It'll be good for the overall area. Btw, I feel for you - as much crapola as you hear about EPA (much of it warranted), here at least tenants aren't considered expendable 3rd class citizens lacking in rights. Menlo has always had a mediocre rep re its treatment and view of tenants vs. landlords - & believe me - it's viewed as "vs.", not "both".