A resident of San Jose, California is renting out a small Harry Potter-style den under the stairs in a flat he rents. His ad is posted on Craigslist.

The 1×3 metre area is asking $250 a month. The tenant says the space is perfect for a cot, and it can also be fenced off with a curtain.

The author of the advert wants to rent the den to a nerdy gamer with no criminal record, addictions or pets. He also asks not to bring guests, adding that no one would want to come to such a place anyway.

The potential subtenant would be allowed to use the tenant's kitchen, crockery, cutlery and even Xbox and TV. But he or she will need to do some chores twice a week. The den flat includes 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom in addition to the kitchen.

Speaking to reporters, the advertiser, who identified himself as Jason, admitted that his sublet offer was ‘clearly illegal’, but complained that the high cost meant he had no other options.

‘It's either that or I rent a Harry Potter-style den under the stairs from someone else, and probably for a lot more money,’ he explained.

Jason noted that he has been approached by about 30 potential tenants since the advert was posted. He said most of the feedback is positive, and mostly people are impressed with the low price. Jason said he's seen ads asking between $600 and $1,200 for half a living room with no access to the kitchen.

San Jose is third on the list of U.S. cities with the most expensive rentals after New York and San Francisco. The average monthly rent for a flat in San Jose costs $3,329.